We can be our own worst enemies. Women sometimes feel like life is a zero sum situation. This means, that in order to advance ourselves, someone else must be left behind or, worse, eliminated. But that isn't the case. There CAN be and ARE multiple winners. It isn't an all or nothing situation. And women like France McDorman are heroes helping other women succeed.
Her academy award speech is rocking the internet and causing lots of discussion regarding her mention of an "inclusion rider". Yup - that got people talking. What is she talking about? Inclusion riders legally obligate companies to ensure there is diversity in their hiring and use of talent.
But that wasn't my favorite line. I loved when she said: Don’t talk to us about it at the parties tonight. Invite us into your office in a couple days or you can come to ours..."
What does this mean? It means women need to be in the meetings, in the Boardroom and in the discussions where the decisions are being made. Being part of discussions at parties is a start, but not a serious foundation for being considered an equal - and paid as an equal.
Don't discuss your pay at a party. Ask to meet in a professional setting - it is too easy to be considered less powerful and less important because of your surroundings. Set yourself up for success. Be taken seriously by putting yourself on equal footing.
Get a seat at the table. That is what Frances McDormand is asking - and she did it beautifully on a global stage.
Know how to promote yourself. And if you find yourself in position of power - protect, prepare and promote OTHER women. If you already have a seat, create a seat for another woman. If you are being paid competitively, help other women receive the same treatment. We don't need to claw OVER other women to succeed - we need to stand on each other's shoulders. Together.
Frances did just that when she asked all her fellow nominees to stand. She was proud of her moment but, more importantly, she was proud of THEIR moment. Together. And she shared it. That takes tremendous confidence and a profound sense of self.
Rise to the top - and help others rise with you. We will succeed - together.
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