As a woman, you can improve your context by finding a
connected mentor and developing a good network. The key word here is
"context" – let's discuss what that means!
Have you ever noticed that when analyzing a situation,
people always "put things in context"? They consider extenuating
circumstances, which includes the conditions they perceive to have created
difficulties or enhanced performance.
This is an issue for women, because if people are not used
to having women in male-dominated roles they will automatically be seen as
"out of context." They will have doubts about their ability to
perform, not only affecting their perception but that of the women in those
roles as well. We end up with "doubt all around."
I learned this when I was the only woman appointed to a very
political board. In an effort to help two warring fractions find middle ground,
I consented to a meeting. Neither side were interested in compromise and as a
reward for my time and effort one group made me the victim of a smear campaign.
I was hurt, angry, and confused, and questioned my judgment. But I was also
able to step back and recognize that I was being set up.
As a woman, these guys thought I was an easy mark, but they
under-estimated the strength that my well-connected mentor and effective
network brought to the equation. My supporters said, "Let's consider the
context. These guys are known trouble-makers and Betty-Ann always works to find
a productive solution. We're on her side."
Until we get more women in senior positions we'll be
"out of context," which will create barriers to our success. People
will doubt our abilities and causes us to doubt ourselves. In the interim the
best thing we can do is get the endorsement of established leaders by making
them our mentors or part of our network. They and other “opinion leaders” will
legitimize us.
Improve your context by taking some time today to connect
with others. You never know when it will come in handy that they’ve "put
you in context."
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My new e-book "Love the Woman in the Mirror" is now available!
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