SMASHING THROUGH THE GLASS CEILING

In my opinion, the advice given below is very sound and if I were to comment (as I shall) it is only to say that it pertains to everyone, not just women who want to 'break through the glass ceiling'.

Here is a great opportunity to go and get yourself an assessment, learn from it, use it and make the necessary changes in your life.

Smashing through the glass ceiling

Many women feel they can only go so far in business, but you can exceed the limits
Workplace staff
17 July 2007 at 09h00

August is international women's month. And according to the 2006 Gallup International "Voice of the People" survey, four out of 10 global citizens still think that women do not have equal rights, yet a vast majority of both genders expects men and women to contribute to a family's household income. What is the glass ceiling? "It is the perceived idea that I, as a woman, can't go further," says Dr Judy Jaye, business development manager for the Voice Clinic, an international soft-skills training company that runs extensive programmes in executive women's empowerment. However, is there really a glass ceiling or is it a perception? Moreover, if there is a glass ceiling, is it something that can be shattered or is it more like an impenetrable concrete roof?

According to Dr Judy, there is a process of empowerment for women who want to break the glass ceiling. The first step is to consider the question: What is it that is stopping me, as a woman, from moving out of my comfort zone? "Many women are afraid of whether they can handle the change and the responsibility that come from moving out of their comfort zone," says Jaye."It is often a big step, as they may be well established, respected and completely competent in their current role.

It is a grave consideration when thinking about change." "Many people, not just women, lock on to certain ideas and, in doing so, lock out others. "This often impedes change. If you are a woman who feels that you are being prevented from advancing because of a 'glass ceiling' you must realign your thinking so that you are ready to embrace change and other responsibilities that come with moving up the corporate ladder. "Giving yourself permission to do so is the first and most important step in the process of empowerment."

The second step is developing a mindset and an environment of mutual respect. In other words, developing a win-win philosophy around all interactions that is neither aggressive and dictatorial nor is it submissive and permission seeking. Mutual respect has a lot to do with using the correct tone of voice, the right words and good body language. It means exercising assertiveness - and recognising that your needs and wants are equal to those of others. This means no screaming or shouting, no belittling or shying away from difficult situations, no mumbling or stumbling and no being steam-rolled by others. "To get it right you must have a steady, calm and confident tone," says Jaye.

This must be supported by excellent knowledge of your field and the industry, confidence in your abilities and competence in all you do. If you feel that you need to, don't hesitate to up-skill attend a course or programme; and constantly read-up on your subject matter, advises Dr Judy.

Image is also very important in creating an atmosphere of respect. Research shows that people form their all-important first impression within 15 seconds of meeting you. "Fifty-five percent of a person's impression of you is based on your appearance: your dress, your hair, your make-up, your posture, and your body language," says Jaye. The remainder (the minority factor) is attributed to the tone of your voice and what you say.

The third step in the empowerment process for women is learning to balance work and home life. For many women, this is a difficult equilibrium to find and to maintain. According to Jaye: "The secret to balancing work and home is time management and learning to prioritise so that things are important - but that they never become urgent."

In order to manage time, the Voice Clinic/the Stress Clinic advises that you clearly set goals for both your home and work life. This provides a plan, direction and focus. "Without immaculate goal setting, you won't succeed. If you fail to plan then you plan to fail," Jaye says.

The fourth component in shattering the glass ceiling is to develop excellent social skills. This includes being aware of the company's culture and etiquette. Each company will have its own ethos and social politics that are particular to that environment. "It is very important to demonstrate initiative, leadership and creativity within the company culture," says Jaye. "Knowing the company culture will ensure that you don't step on toes and ruffle feathers that will set you back in your career goals and ambitions."

Lastly, always be positive, proactive and confident. This will set you apart as a leader and someone who the company wants to promote to greater heights," she concludes.

The Voice Clinic offers complimentary communication and lifestyle assessments.

For more information, visit www.thevoiceclinic.com or www.thestressclinic.com or call 011- 880-2334.