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By Natalie Pedemont, Director, Veritas Recruitment Parramatta
Last week’s Women in Leadership Breakfast in Sydney hosted by Bullhorn was valuable and insightful in so many ways. Panellists Kelly Van Nelson and Angela Anasis spoke candidly about how they built their careers, what challenges they faced and how we can all do more to inspire a new generation of women in leadership.
And I was honoured to be asked to moderate alongside a collection of inspiring female recruitment leaders - Sinead Connolly, Lauren Thom, Debbie Hannaford, Hannah Rodger, Lisa Rodgers and Abbie Morris
For me it was hugely motivating to connect with likeminded women who have all faced similar challenges along their leadership journeys and to share our stories.
But what struck me the most was the tangible progress being made since I began my career in recruitment over 20 years ago.
Thanks to a huge number of programs and policies now in place within businesses to support women into leadership roles, we’re moving at a greater pace from individual contributors to valued business leaders. There’s now a real recognition and understanding of the benefits of diversity at senior levels.
What I also found particularly encouraging is the drive of so many women in leadership to encourage and support new and emerging female talent. I’ve been so fortunate throughout my career to have been led by a number of great women who have given me opportunities to grow and thrive. And today, I value my position to be able to inspire other women to pursue their career aspirations.
Instilling confidence in women to try new things and be involved in projects exposing them to the wider business is so important. And encouraging women to mentor more junior staff and provide coaching is equally valuable.
The event last week has inspired me to put together the following advice for ambitious women focused on progressing into leadership roles. Here are my top five takeaways:
1. Don’t be afraid to voice your leadership aspirations
It’s so important to speak up and let your manager know you’re interested in a career in leadership - don't assume they know. A good manager should be invested in your career progression as much as you are. Make sure they understand how much it means to you and ask for guidance and support.
2. Invest in your professional development
At the Bullhorn breakfast, it was so encouraging to hear of businesses both large and small recognising the need for programs to assist future female leaders - from initial identification to building confidence and placing women on pathways to leadership through a variety of programs and policies. Say yes to each and every learning opportunity offered to you and seek out additional leadership training where you can.
3. Don’t succumb to imposter syndrome
It was also interesting to hear how prevalent impostor syndrome is amongst women at all levels and how damaging it can be to women's careers. You need to banish imposter syndrome once and for all and find a workplace where managers inspire confidence in your abilities, enable you to champion new projects and expose you to the wider business.
4. Find a mentor or hire a coach you trusta
Most women in leadership roles have benefitted from the advice of mentors and coaches throughout their careers. Mentors and coaches help to expand your way of thinking, assist you with areas of self-improvement and build on your strengths.
5. Network, network, network
And finally, although networking events can be intimidating it’s crucial to understand your industry and begin to be noticed. Take yourself out of your comfort zone - start small, build your confidence and grab every career opportunity.
If you’re a female leader, what top piece of advice would you give to the next generation of new and emerging female talent? And if you’re just starting out, what support would you most like to progress your career into a leadership role?
If you would like discuss your career aspirations or are looking for a dynamic new recruitment role, please contact me directly and I would be happy to assist:
Natalie Pedemont is co-director of Veritas Recruitment Parramatta. With a career spanning over 20 years, she is a talented recruitment leader committed to assisting women progress their careers and fulfil their leadership potential.
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