Females: Finding Their Voice

This week I was reminded that in 2015, women are still struggling to have a voice and a say in any arena. An interestingly relevant article by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant, Speaking While Female, explored the struggles women face in trying to speak up or speak out at work.

Sandberg used examples of women being silenced and being out rightly ignored at work, when they tried to make contributions in discussions or meetings. Many of us, especially those in Corporate America, can relate. These examples appeared to be the rule and not the exception. Sandberg and Grant warn about the dangers of silencing women in the work place and the potential loss of great and innovative ideas – think of the damage!

As we advance our modern technologies, our mindsets must also adapt and be open to change. Women have a lot of meaningful contributions to make to any organization they work for. The idea that fear of backlash exists from male or female colleagues if a woman exercises self-belief and shares an idea is an archaic notion that we need to work to change. Unfortunately, women who aren’t afraid to express themselves in meetings are judged more harshly than a male colleague – by men and by women! Professional women have had to learn and embrace the saying “less is more.” No organization or business can survive for very long if workers do not feel free to contribute and share ideas.

The article shares findings from a study conducted by a researcher from the University of Texas. This study revealed that when the researcher advised the group that one member had valuable information that would benefit the group, if the information came from a woman it was discounted. Team leaders viewed the women as less loyal and were less likely to act on their suggestions. Contributions cannot be shared in an environment when people, namely women, aren’t allowed to express themselves freely.

Thankfully, Sandberg gave examples of leaders and organizations who employed strategies that ensured that women had an equal say in the work place. One such strategy is the “No interruption rule”. The idea behind this rule is that once someone is sharing an idea, no one can interrupt that person be, them male or female. Another strategy is to share ideas anonymously. Whichever idea is favored more that idea would be implemented. Whatever the case, women must feel comfortable and confident to be able to participate and make a contribution. It’s a shame that we’re made to implement such strategies in order for all voices to be heard but until the shift is complete, these are some great ways to allow for equality of expression.

As 2015 rolls on its merry way, our ideas and mindsets need to demonstrate and evolved way of thinking, where a woman’s opinion matters and is, dare I say, revered.
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Felena is a long-time entrepreneur and marketing maven.  Her latest venture, Hera Hub, is a spa-inspired shared workspace for female entrepreneurs. This as-needed, flexible work and meeting space provides a productive environment for women who primarily work from home.  Hera Hub members have access to a professional space to meet with clients and to connect and collaborate with like-minded business owners, thus giving them the support they need to be prosperous.  Cost-effective monthly membership options are suited for freelancers, independent consultants, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and authors.

Hera Hub is much more than just a shared workspace; it’s a community of like-minded entrepreneurial women who find the additional resources, such as special classes, workshops, and one-on-one support essential for their business growth. The first San Diego location is conveniently located in Sorrento Valley.  By the end of 2012 Hera Hub will have additional locations in Mission Valley & Carlsbad.

Felena is passionate about education, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of San Diego and her MBA from California State University Dominguez Hills.  She taught Marketing and Entrepreneurship at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and at California State University Dominguez Hills for the MBA online program for eight years. Felena was most recently rewarded for community efforts, as she was awarded the “Women Business Owner of the Year Award” by the local chapter of the National Organization of Women Business Owners.