The number of women in business today is at an all-time high, yet they are still wondering what they can do to stand out. Even with a new influx of career-driven women, it’s still not rare to be the only woman in a meeting. Getting your views across is essential because it gets you noticed and increases the chances of greater exposure to opportunities. Sadly, some women aren’t self-confident enough to kill it in a male-dominated environment and don’t get the attention or exposure that they desire.
Here are a few things that you can do the grow your career and maintain credibility in the workplace.

Appeal To Third Parties

Most women try to get the attention of their boss because they are the people who make the decisions. However, when it comes to career growth, it’s in your best interest to cast a wider net and look outside of the office. Attend conferences, have an interesting Linkedin profile and connect with recruiters. Do your research and decide which search firms are best suited for your interest and industry – check this website out and see if this one meets your needs. Success in the workplace will require you to take risks and be willing to expand your horizons beyond your areas of comfort.

Be Cucumber Cool

As unfair as it may be, women in the workplace are often labeled in not so favorable ways. One of the most common involves her demeanor or emotional state. Women have been accused of not being able to manage their stress and subsequently allowing it to affect their performance. Let’s be real, we all know that this is a stereotype because it does not apply to all women. Regardless of whether this is nonsense or not (and it is!), it’s essential that we present our very best self by remaining cool and collected under pressure. By minimizing the tension that may surface in a challenging work environment, you can avoid the stigma of being labeled the “emotional one” or “angry one” and show the men just what a powerhouse woman you are.

Protect Your Personal Life

Guys can engage in a ton of behaviors and can often do so without judgment. Women, on the other hand, are often judged consistently, often unfairly. If a woman has a one-night stand for example and the people in her office find out, she gets labeled with a ton of unflattering adjectives. Fighting back in a situation like this is a necessary step, but it’s better to do it strategically than to come out all guns blazing. Merely separating the personal from the work-related is an effective way to avoid gossip and rumors. Sure, socialize with colleagues because there is nothing wrong with bonding, but don’t reveal everything. Instead, leave that for your real friends who you can trust to be supportive and non-judgmental. Remeber to never “ish” where you eat. Simple.

Don’t Follow People Blindly

Every successful woman would benefit from having a mentor in her life. However, be diligent when it comes to selecting one. Don’t merely approach the first person who appears to be the perfect match for you. Do your research, invite them out for coffee, express to them genuinely what you are looking for in a role model. What might have appeared to be the right person to fill this role, may ultimately not be the one you will benefit from having in your life. If you desire to grow your career and maintain credibility in the workplace, you have to map out a short and long-term plan, inclusive of realistic goals. The right mentor can help you with this exercise.

What tips do you have for women who are new to the workplace?

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