How a female leader became more influential

We recognize that you face double standards and the complexity of work life balance daily. You also question your ambition and whether it’s all worth it. We get that.

Having more women – intelligent, centered, dynamic women – in executive leadership can add $12 trillion to global growth, make your organization 15% more likely to outperform and with 35% higher returns. So it’s not just about you. Business needs you. Society needs you.

Your intelligence and outstanding results are not enough if you want more leadership options and to have greater impact. It’s disappointing. You’re probably rolling your eyes in anticipation of the suggestion of adding one more thing to your already jam-packed to-do list. But we’re here to let you know that designing and building a reputation that elevates you to the next level, builds credibility and executive presence is critical to ensuring you have options. And, our approach ensures there’s not another thing on your to-do list.

Here’s how one leader we worked with rebranded herself and became even more influential.

A truly brilliant scientist was poised for promotion. Her capacity to absorb vast amounts of complex information and distill it into simple concepts to share with others was at the forefront of her reputation. She oversaw significant projects in the organization, which impacted millions of patients.

Despite that brilliance and her outstanding results, the promotion didn’t materialize. She was confused but sensed that the delays were not just the organization running slow. She engaged with us to address her communication style. It was a good place to start because her style raised concerns about her readiness for the next level. Her quick thinking whizzed past her team, they couldn’t keep up, and disengaged. Her frustration at slow decision making, duplication, and political posturing showed. She was deeply respected for her expertise, adored socially, but people didn’t want to get behind her and follow.

Our work with her has finessed her communication, but most importantly created follower-ship. Her warm, engaging, personality is fully apparent, and she has been promoted. Equally true, she’s found the balance of safeguarding uninterrupted time away from work with working more efficiently, and is able to cut through the static, get to the heart of a situation, and do it with grace and humanity.

Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.

— Michelle Obama