Women Empowerment: The Imperative for Professional Networks- Emily Salzman
Empowerment is a multi-faceted journey that transforms not only the individuals who experience it but also the communities and industries they touch. Currently, women hold 33% of management roles in mid-market to enterprise businesses and 12% of C-suite positions. As we navigate this diversity gap and continue climbing the career ladder, women need to build relationships and support each other. Unlike men, who often bond through shared activities like golf, fishing, and watching sports, women lack these established “rituals.” This absence highlights the need for women to be part of professional networks to foster their careers.
In a world where imposter syndrome is a common feeling for many women, empowerment is particularly crucial, offering pathways to equity, innovation, and societal progress. Empowering women not only improves diversity and inclusion metrics and enhances the bottom line but also taps into a significant labor force. According to a Gallup study, 58% of women not currently in the workforce would like to work in paid jobs, and 41% would like to work while also caring for their families. With the rise of remote work, these women now have more opportunities, potentially contributing over $500 billion to our economy.
Chief Economist Indermit Gill of the World Bank Group states that closing the gender gap could increase global GDP by more than 20%, effectively doubling the global growth rate over the next decade. The untapped economic potential of women is seen as a key driver for economic growth and prosperity. Therefore, empowering women to continue their careers before, during, and after significant life and family events is crucial not only for individual success but for the economic vitality of our society.
What sparks empowerment? It begins with the ability to independently make decisions and take charge of one’s life. Self-confidence forms its foundation, often strengthened by support from others, including mentors and role models. However, due to the smaller percentage of female leaders, women frequently encounter fewer opportunities for mentorship in their respective fields. This reality underscores the importance of advocating for oneself and feeling empowered to pursue career advancements, such as seeking roles or negotiating salary increases.
Women’s Professional Networks are the new “ritual” for women to unite and to empower. These networks serve as a collective of “trusted advisors” for navigating workplace challenges, providing accessible mentorship opportunities, facilitating career transitions and job opportunities, fostering personal and professional relationships, and many, offering valuable resources for continuous learning and growth.
As women continue to navigate and shape the landscape of professional environments, the role of Women’s Professional Networks becomes increasingly pivotal. These networks not only provide essential support and mentorship but also serve as catalysts for broader societal and economic advancement. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and advocating for equal opportunities, they empower women to thrive personally and professionally. Engaging in Women’s Professional Networks is not just about individual success; it’s about creating a more inclusive and equitable future where every woman can contribute her full potential. Together, we can harness this collective empowerment to drive innovation, enhance diversity, and fuel economic growth, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Emily Salzman champions community and business growth with a proven track record as a catalyst. She excels in fostering expansion through strong relationships and co-founded the “FENIX” professional network, advocating for women’s empowerment.Emily’s experience spans diverse roles, showcasing her expertise in fostering expansion and her commitment to wellness and community development.
Connect with Emily on LinkedIn.
