Positioning for Promotion

March is a very special month for me.Not only is it my birthday month,it is also the month in which women are celebrated and recognised.The theme for 2016 is gender parity and I'd encourage everyone reading this male and female to pledge for parity.

I was invited by Paceworking led by Seye Aina to speak at a women's day event at the Abbey Centre in London.I had a chance to share my tips on women positioning themselves for promotion in any sphere of their choice.

So 7 quick tips for you:

1)Understand what Promotion means for you

Know what makes you feel strong and empowered.This can vary widely from being a stay at home mum(which is more than a full time job by the way),working outside the home part-time or working outside the home full-time,self-employed,employed and so on.

For me,promotion/success is having a voice to influence change in my chosen field and bringing about growth in others.

2)Be visible

Get known in your field.No matter how brilliant you are,no one will know about it if you don't share your knowledge or ideas.

Attend conferences,meetings,offer to help.

Many opportunities happen on recommendation from someone else.

3)Take Opportunities

The more visible you are,the more opportunities come.When the right position comes along,don't wait till you think you will be ready.Take it now!

New roles should be stretching and cause you to grow.Commit to working hard and learning fast.

4)Be flexible

This is two-pronged.First be flexible with your plans;the path you've charted may not go the way you thought,be ready to modify your plans as you go along.Secondly,be flexible with your approach,the 9-5 pattern of work may not suffice the higher you go in your chosen career path.Be willing to work differently while still protecting your down time.

5)Get help/Prioritize

You can't do everything perfectly 100% of the time or you may drive yourself to illness.Most women (and some men) have so many plates spinning at the same time,it is important to understand that occasionally,even you will drop one of them.

Get family support or paid support if you can.Prioritize and focus on your 'must dos'.

6)Have a mentor and a sponsor and be a mentor and a sponsor

Seek out a mentor who you admire and build a symbiotic relationship.Also look out for sponsors who are people who believe in you and will champion you in most situations.Don't forget to do the same for others aspiring to be where you are.

7)Be Healthy

A healthy mind and body are the bedrock of your aspirations.Know your zone of optimal performance and try to stay within it.

We had a mini pilates session at the event run by OhSoPilates which I totally enjoyed.

These are the tips I have used in my journey and will continue to use in various forms.Let me know your thoughts and send me any tips you may have,let's continue the conversation.I wish you success in your endeavours!

#PersonalDevelopment #Leadership #TheAbbeyCentreLondon #Paceworking #HealthArchitect