Q1
West & North Yorkshire Business
38 WOMEN IN BUSINESS “Make the most of opportunities open to you, even if you don’t feel 100% confident about them. Growth comes from doing new things.” Sandy Needham Chief Executive West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce
Chamber Women help Break the Bias Ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) which took place on Tuesday 8 March, the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce developed a campaign featuring inspiring female leaders from across its network. The 2022 IWD theme was Break the Bias; something the Chamber knew it could get involved with by showcasing the motivational stories and offering words of advice from successful women in a range of different sectors. The aim of the campaign was to inspire the next generation of budding female leaders, offering guidance on how to kickstart their career with confidence, or take that next step and move up the ladder. To begin the IWD campaign, Chamber colleagues spoke with Amanda Beresford, Chair of the WNY Chamber and Partner & Head of Planning at Schofield Sweeney LLP. When asked what advice she would give to a woman beginning her career, Amanda urged: “Cultivate an appearance of confidence, even if you don’t feel it, take a few smart risks and be prepared to step outside your comfort zone.” You can access information and resources on the Chamber’s Women in Business website: www.wnychamber.co.uk/women-in-business/
“When opportunities come knocking – grab them with both hands. Even if at times you feel uncomfortable – step outside that box and let yourself grow. You are amazing...” Joanne Love Site Communicator Solenis
“Listen to your conscience, if it doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. Accept that imposter syndrome happens to us all so embrace it and allow it to make you feel proud and excited for the work you do! ” Alex Miles Managing Director Yorkshire Learning Providers
“Find your values and personal brand, be true to who you are. Be accepting of your imperfections (we all have them) and be brave at times to go out of your comfort zone.” Rebecca Fitzgerald Director of Data Yorkshire Building Society
“Be curious and ask questions. Show enthusiasm for the work that needs to be done. Treat your career as an exciting journey and keep an open mind.” Kathryn McKenning Learning & Development Manager Solenis
