Changing Executive Opportunities: Having A Seat At The Table

Women have been breaking barriers and making strides in various industries for years, but there is still a significant gap in leadership positions. This disparity is even more pronounced in executive roles, where women are vastly underrepresented. However, the tide is turning, and women are beginning to change the landscape of executive opportunities by having a seat at the table.

Another way women are changing the executive opportunities landscape is by advocating for themselves and others. Women who are successful in executive roles can serve as role models and mentors for other women who aspire to leadership positions. They can also use their influence to push for more gender diversity in their companies and industries.

Moreover, women are taking advantage of opportunities in traditionally male-dominated industries such as technology and finance. For instance, the number of women in technology leadership roles has increased by 11% over the past five years, according to a study by Accenture. This growth is due to efforts by technology companies to promote gender diversity and inclusion.

It is important to note that gender diversity is not just a moral issue, but also a business imperative. A study by McKinsey & Company found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity were 21% more likely to have above-average profitability than those in the bottom quartile.

Women are making significant progress in various industries, but there is still a significant gap in leadership positions, especially in executive roles. However, some 30 of 50 women have been successful in shattering the glass ceiling and are changing the landscape of executive opportunities. For instance, Ginni Rometty and Mary Barra are two women who have achieved great success in executive leadership.

Women are included in operational decision-making and can contribute their perspectives and ideas. This approach can lead to more innovative and inclusive solutions. Companies in the top quartile for gender and cultural diversity on executive teams are more likely to have above-average profitability than those in the bottom quartile.

These statistics demonstrate that diversity and inclusion are not just about social justice, but they also make good business sense. When companies have diverse executive teams, they are better equipped to understand and serve their diverse customer base, which can lead to increased profitability and growth.

However, having a seat at the table is not enough. Women also need support and opportunities to develop their leadership skills and advance in their careers. This is where mentorship and sponsorship programs can be particularly effective.

According to a report by the Peterson Institute for International Economics, companies with at least 30% female leaders could add up to 6 percentage points to their net margin. Furthermore, the report found that mentorship and sponsorship programs can be particularly effective in promoting gender diversity in leadership positions.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW THIS WAS A CAREER YOU WANTED TO PURSUE?

I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in helping women of color small business o develop and grow their businesses when I founded HerSuiteSpot because I felt. As business analyst and coach, I have always been passionate about helping others a their goals and aspirations. I have found that small business owners often have a u set of challenges and opportunities, and I wanted to use my skills and experience t empower and support them as they navigate the complexities of building and grow successful business. I believe that small businesses play a critical role in driving ec growth and innovation, and I am committed to helping as many of them as possible achieve their full potential.

LIST ANY ADDITIONAL POSTIONS YOU HOLD (BOARD MEMBER, FELLOW MEMBERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, ETC...)

I am also the Founder & Executive Director of the Yva Jourdan Foundation, an orga dedicated to advancing the economic success of women and young girls of color.

WHAT TIP WOULD YOU SHARE WITH SOMEONE THAT IS ON THE SAME JOURNEY?

My tip for someone who is on the same journey of helping small business owners d and grow their businesses would be to stay focused on the needs and goals of you clients. It's important to understand the unique challenges and opportunities that s business owners face and to tailor your services and advice to meet those specific Additionally, it's essential to continuously educate yourself and stay informed abou latest trends, best practices, and resources available to small business owners. Networking and building a strong community of peers and experts in your field can a valuable asset to help you to share knowledge and experiences. And, it's importa remember that it's not just about providing advice but also being a good listener, a always being there for your clients, and be available to guide them throughout the process.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AFFIRMATION?

I have several affirmations that I lean on during my time of gratitude each day. My f is I am surrounded by abundance and prosperity.

DO YOU HAVE OR IN THE PROCESS OF WRITING A BOOK? IF SO, SHARE

DETAILS. I co-authored a children's book with my son Joshua called Just As I Am Kindness. I book Joshua show's all the ways he shows kindness. I am also the publisher and contributing writer in several anthologies. All of the books were written and put tog as a guide to help women of color advance as leaders and in business. All the book available on Amazon. Life Balance for the Women on the Rise is a handbook for wo seeking to gain balance in five major categories of life. I along with my five expert c authors will give you the necessary tools that will enable you to make significant improvements in your personal and professional life. This journey of life finding bal Mind, Body and Spirit is essential to leading a life of balance for Women on the Rise Business Success Strategies for Women on the Rise empowers women to create strategies for success in their businesses. Whether you are just starting out or alre business this book offers success strategies from women with diverse background Running a successful business takes more than just passion and a desire to be self employed, running a successful business requires strategic business planning and do” mindset that most entrepreneurs share. Award Winning, Best Selling Author an Business Coach Marsha Guerrier recognize that there is no one path to success an many, success is a never ending search. She wanted to showcase women who hav achieved this in their businesses. Soaring Beyond the 9 to 5 is an inspiring resourc will motivate women to achieve their absolute best by focusing on strengths, steeri away from weaknesses and pursing their passions to reach their next level in life. S courageous women share advice on how they soar through their career and busine These dynamic authors reveal details of their personal life, challenges they’ve face the way and the tools they used to overcome the obstacles. Award Winning, Best S Author and Business Coach Marsha Guerrier want other women to know they too c beyond the 9 to 5. Pathways to HerRise is an inspiring resource that will motivate y discover the pathway to rise in your career and business. The limiting beliefs of oth imposter syndrome, fear of rejection, and the need to be perfect are the most wide feelings that women report as to why they are either slow to start their side busine have not yet leaped to becoming their own boss. Best Selling Author Marsha Guerri her Co-Authors share their personal stories and advice on how they have been abl chart their path to success. In this book you will learn strategies on how to overco barriers that are holding you back from living life on your terms.

I have worked for AT&T since 2014 with 17 years total in the telecommunications/tech industry. I am the current VP of Marketing for The Women of AT&T Houston Chapter and a 2022 AT&T Service Excellence Award Winner. Leadership, communication and initiative has been the key to finding a path to success in Corporate America.

Ashley also serves as the VP of Marketing for The Women of AT&T.

Mission:

To provide learning and networking opportunities to enhance our members’ effectiveness. We achieve this by supporting personal and professional development, corporate programs, and community involvement.

Values:

• Encourage leadership by providing opportunities to exercise leadership skills

• Increase knowledge and understanding of our business

• Provide networking opportunities to enhance teamwork and professional development

• Enhance opportunities for personal growth

• Ensure professional growth essential to AT&T’s continued prosperity

• Enhance both personal and corporate growth through community involvement

• Promote active involvement in WOA as a personal investment, returned tenfold!

Lakesha Davis _Sanders is a member of The Women of AT&T. She loves to give back and help the community. Joining an organization is more than just being a member, but puttin in the work.

Assistant Superintendent of School Leadership

WHEN DID YOU KNOW THIS WAS A CAREER YOU WANTED TO PURSUE?

I knew this was the career I wanted to pursue at the age of 5. I was born a teacher and leader. I have always had the desire to help others. In the field of education, one has the ability to influence and inspire at all levels. I have served as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. I love working with people and pushing them past their limits so they can believe in themselves while making a difference.

44 of 50

LIST ANY ADDITIONAL POSITIONS YOU HOLD (BOARD MEMBER, FELLOW MEMBERSHIP, VOLUNTEER, ETC...)

Board Member - Co-Chair H.O.P.E. Haven Membership- Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated - The Woodlands Chapter; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated - Member at Large; The Links, Incorporated - Gulf Coast Apollo (TX) Chapter

WHAT TIP WOULD YOU SHARE WITH SOMEONE THAT IS ON THE SAME JOURNEY?

The world needs you. You are the answer. Walk in the room and believe that you belong there as you bring others along with you. It is necessary that we have diversity of thought and this happens by having a seat at the table or bringing your own chair and sometimes constructing your own table. The work is hard but anything worth having is as you have to continue to lean into discomfort to discover the beauty of what you create....opportunity.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AFFIRMATION?

Ask for help. It's a sign of self-respect and self-awareness. I am statements...they allow me to be present in the moment while being open to the gift of what's to come.

DO YOU HAVE OR IN THE PROCESS OF WRITING A BOOK? IF SO, SHARE DETAILS.

I am a contributing author to The 9 %: Black Women Leaders Tell It Like It Is This is the guide for aspiring Black women leaders who want to break through the concrete ceiling and take their place in the C-suite! The 9% provides insight into the lived experiences of 15 Black women leaders who are indifferent fields within Corporate America. This is a compelling work for strategies for improving both the diversity and leadership of multicultural teams. Future generations of leaders will benefit from this exceptional collection of wisdom which includes stories on how each one has overcome the unique challenges of being a Black woman trying to achieve her Godgiven potential as leaders. Take your time with each story as they tell it like it is and then lead on. https://the9percent.com/

Board Member - Co-Chair H.O.P.E. Haven Membership- Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated - The Woodlands Chapter; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated - Member at Large; The Links, Incorporated - Gulf Coast Apollo (TX) Chapter