As we move along in a growing society it becomes more apparent each day that women need to slow down for a minute to assess their current place in the professional world. They need to understand their role in being change agents for a better society where there is more equality. Even though this can often be thought of as the elusive dream, there are very successful women in society that seem to have mastered the tricks of the trade. The first step is to recognise that there is a trade and yes, most definitely there is a trick.
Women and men are different as day is from night. Their role in the world is different and their functions, both necessary, are also different. However, in the business world where everyone is expected to compete and deliver the bottom line, differences–though still existent–is not what needs the focus. Women who learn how to step up to the plate quickly, get the message and run with the ball are the most successful. They become dependable and therefore respected.
Being professional in a male dominated business world has less to do with the way we look and more to do with the way we carry ourselves. It goes way beyond a college degree and a nice suit and encompasses a more detailed approach from one’s finger nails, to the very art of appropriate conversation. Having said that; however, women competing in today’s professional world need to understand what their appearance says about them. While being well dressed is not enough to ensure success, an unprofessional appearance will almost always guarantee failure. The impact of maintaining a professional image is paramount. Individualism is only respected to a certain degree and dressing appropriately is necessary for success. Regardless of how you want to dress, as a woman in the professional world, you should always dress the part.
Although people overall are initially judged by the way they look, studies show that women are more so than men. They then earn their credibility based on how they act. Women who want to succeed take the time to look their best and act appropriately at all times. Living on a small island just compounds the dilemma since one now has to be cognizant of their behaviour during weekend and personal time even more than those who live in larger places. We unfortunately cannot get away from that anytime soon.
Attitude and approach weigh heavily on a woman’s success. Women who believe that a tough and aggressive style will help them to succeed are mistaken. There are exceptions to the rule but most women with power are charmers and even those who present the rough exterior to subordinates usually charm the people above them. This in no way means that a woman must be submissive to succeed; however, it does suggest that having a hard exterior will most likely hinder her ability to endear herself to her male counterpart. However on the same note it is important to understand that being flirtatious and casual is not the answer. A woman’s demeanour can hinder her opportunities to even demonstrate the most appropriate conduct or qualifications. Appearing too casual or staunch can be a deal breaker on all fronts when working with the opposite sex and therefore finding the balance is the secret.
Let’s face it: in today’s world, appearance and conduct matter. They are not interchangeable. Women have to be on equal footing to compete on a very uneven playing field and although challenging, has been proven to be very doable if done with awareness, care and attention to every single detail.
