Women are saying that it’s too hard to relate to Sandberg and she is too far from the norm. It’s time for women to shift their perspective and begin to identify with the successes of other women.
The issue isn’t just how women perceive other women, but more how society perceives successful women. Somehow the question of being “relatable” pops up, but what does that even mean? By definition, being relatable connects people through circumstances that are familiar and imaginable. So to say that super successful women (such as Sandberg) are not relatable is like saying that their success is beyond the norm. Many women have the mindset of only taking advice from other women who are just like them, but that can be limiting.
So what can we do as women to make successful also relatable?
Start talking about yourself! Yes, we’re talking self-promotion here. Don’t shy away from your personal and professional achievements. Take credit about your jobs well done and share your successes with friends and family. Own your success and don’t let it alienate you.
Be an advocate of other women! If you think someone you work with deserves a job or promotion, become their cheerleader and actively help that person advance. For example, if you are in a meeting with top decision makers, mention that person’s name. It’s important to promote the idea of success as a group effort and something that can be achieved collaboratively.
Acknowledge your accomplishments! Research has proven that women tend to underrate their own performance. Take the time to acknowledge your accomplishments and share with others. Success is definitely noteworthy, but it shouldn’t be out of the norm. When people expect you to achieve, that’s when you have found real success.
These aren’t changes that will happen overnight, but they are worth striving for. Feel proud when you accomplish a large project at work, and don’t be afraid to let others know! For more information on women and the workplace, give us a call. Otherwise, share your recent successes below!