Being heard as a female senior leader

Thirty years in the police and 5 in cyber security connected to the police- what was I thinking? I'd come from a career as a store manager for River Island and Top Shop, where women were in the majority, and thrown myself headlong into a male-dominated environment. As women advance in their careers, particularly in leadership roles, they often encounter unique challenges. One of the most apparent struggles is the feeling of not being heard. I usually sit in a room of peers where I'm the most qualified and experienced (and usually the oldest!) yet the most 'ignored'. I've had things 'mansplained' to me, and my feedback has been returned with contrary and condescending comments.

However, I still feel trying to break that glass ceiling is essential. As a result, I sought promotion throughout my 30+ years to gain the seniority of rank and role that would be listened to. I'm an innovative person who likes to try new things, and my job satisfaction comes from making new things work well, so I need to be heard.

The societal expectations, unconscious biases, and professional dynamics, especially in a rank culture, can make it difficult for senior women to assert their authority and influence fully. More specifically, within the police and cyber security industry, where men have historically held most leadership positions, finding a voice and commanding respect can feel like an uphill battle. 

So, how can senior female leaders overcome this? 

• Master Your Communication Skills: Implementing clear and concise communication is crucial, especially in leadership positions. The ability to command a room is not easy. Still, practising presentations and speeches out loud will make them flow better.
   
• Support Your Ideas with Data and Evidence: Data-driven decisions are a powerful tool; the more you can back up your ideas with evidence, research or measurable outcomes, the stronger your position becomes. Pictures and graphs paint 1000 words and cannot be misunderstood.
   
• Build a Supportive Network: Surrounding yourself with a strong network of allies, mentors, and like-minded professionals can make a huge difference. These connections can offer invaluable advice and advocacy and even amplify your voice when needed. If you're in the minority, seek support by making individual connections outside large meetings. Win people over outside of the meeting.
   
• Set Boundaries: Senior women often face balancing work demands with personal life. However, to maintain credibility and avoid burnout, setting boundaries at work and home is essential. You don't have to work harder or longer than you make colleagues smarter- use scheduled send on an email, send holding e-mails to enquiries automatically, and mark any busy time in your diary, including travel and thinking time. More importantly, learn to say no, even to the boss- it does work when you don't always do it!

The Power of Mentorship and Role Models

In an ideal world, every senior woman would have a supportive network and access to mentorship, but it's not always the case. Women must build these support systems and create opportunities for others to follow. Leadership isn't just about leading the way; it's about paving the way for future generations of women in leadership positions. I have built a network of senior women associates over the years that I can call, moan to, seek support and run things past. More importantly, I do it for others. 

Being heard as a senior woman may not always be smooth. Still, every step forward is a step toward dismantling barriers for future generations. Through clear communication, assertiveness, mentorship, and building a strong network, women can ensure that their voices resonate loudly and with authority in their rooms.

It's time to redefine leadership and create a future where women are truly heard and respected for the influential leaders they are, no matter what industry they are in.

Happy International Women's Day!