How do we make it great for the next generation?
Leadership for the next generation. We had great women that paved the path before us. They made the option for us to get a seat at the table. They were the first to lead in a room of men. They were the first to host a morning show on radio dominated by men. What unique qualities or inability to settle in did they possess?
They wanted more, they had to be unhappy with what the usual path of success looked like in the 70’s and 80’s. That’s right ladies we have not had a seat at the table for a very long time. I recall my early days in 1991, with my first professional job. All the leaders we men, all the team leads or floor leads were women. We held the second position. It was not until Oprah aired on September 8, 1986, that I saw a woman take a leadership role in a very visible stage. I was in awe. How did she do it? How did she get there? She sure didn’t land on TV one fine day.
Now we face the challenge of creating a space for young women in leadership. They have role models. They have ideas. They have opportunities. They need us to open up space for them. Give them a seat at the table. Let them in before they “earn” it as we did. They need to sample what it feels like.
So next time you are given a big assignment. Bring someone else along with you. Let them make meaningful decisions. Reach out to a college or high school student offer your time. Pay attention. They need us to show them HOW.
Shar Hermanson 