Women's Leadership Success

Do you have any of these LinkedIn profile questions below?  LinkedIn has become the talk of the town, but don't worry as we're here to help you with executive women LinkedIn optimization for your profile. Why should executive women use LinkedIn? What does a powerful LinkedIn profile have in it? Do you have a LinkedIn profile but you’re not getting recruited? Did you know that your LinkedIn profile should be different from your resume? Have you ever wondered why you should use LinkedIn to build your brand, grow your network and influence, get a promotion, increase your income or get a better job?  How Can LinkedIn Help You Have a Robust Career in 2022?  “LinkedIn helps people connect with opportunity.” Donna Serdula In 2022, LinkedIn has reached 800 million users worldwide and 95% of recruiters hire individuals based on good profiles. It's time that we, especially women, should take up the charge and make strong LinkedIn profiles to get what we deserve. The need for practical tips and techniques is what you need at the moment and that is why we have Donna Serdula onboard to help us understand how we can build a strong LinkedIn profile recruiters can never reject and will increase your influence and help your career development. To optimize LinkedIn, you need more than a profile for a job, you need better and more useful connections and a strong network. In the first part of this incredible podcast, you will get to know the secrets to having an outstanding LinkedIn profile coming from our expert guest Donna Serdula. Donna Serdula, LinkedIn Specialist, Author: “LinkedIn Profile Optimization For Dummies" Donna Serdula is a versatile marketer and LinkedIn specialist. After having 10 successful years in the sales and marketing industry, she weaved her own path in becoming a legendary LinkedIn expert. Her book “LinkedIn Profile Optimization For Dummies” is a breakthrough in helping small and big businesses to get hold of their LinkedIn profiles in a professional and beneficial manner. Donna has been working with her team of 20 incredible writers at her website LinkedIn-Makeover.com making people’s lives easier in getting better jobs, expanding their networks and personal branding with her power of creating successful LinkedIn profiles and their maintenance.   Executive Women LinkedIn Optimization Part I of  II Show Notes: Reasons why executive women needs LinkedIn [03:07-04:31] “Your network is your net worth.” Is that so? How LinkedIn helps executive women connect with opportunities. [04:32- 08:20] Learn how and why your LinkedIn profile needs to be different from your resume. [10:32- 12:00] Discover the professional benefits of being active? [12:25 - 23:17] Learn about SOAR methodology: Strategize, Optimize, Amplify, and Regulate. Want a powerful profile? Here are the top 3 things executive women do to increase their income and impact? [23:19- 29:28] How a LinkedIn Premium Business account can help you prospect, grow your network and advance your career.[30:27- 33:41]   Executive Women LinkedIn Optimization Part II is Live 4/12/22 In part two, we're going dive deeper into LinkedIn to help executive women get a promotion or a better job. Donna shares one of her top trade secrets that increases your chances of getting your ideal job, (especially in a competitive situation) and answer some core questions that our listeners have asked. Also in part II Donna reviews Sabrina’s linkedIn profile, points out some flaws and make some great recommendations to improve, that will help you too.   Action for Traction: LinkedIn Optimization for Executive Women Listening to a podcast or reading a book good is a start. But the way you will change and grow yourself is to take a small action every time you have an aha from what you have heard or read.

As senior leaders, it's critical that we proactively address disability inclusion in our organizations. People with disabilities make up over 25% of the population - and that number is even higher among younger demographics. By creating more accessible, disability-friendly workplaces, we can unlock a wealth of talent and perspectives that will give our companies a competitive edge. However, building true inclusive disability leadership goes beyond just checking boxes for legal compliance or basic accommodations. To truly empower employees with disabilities, we need a holistic shift in mindset and culture - led from the top down. In a powerful interview, disability inclusion expert Stephanie Cawthon shared key insights and actionable strategies that senior leaders can implement. Dr. Stephanie Cawthon Inclusive Disability Expert Dr. Stephanie Cawton is an internationally renowned scholar whose work centers on a powerful premise: when we embrace accessibility, we create environments where disabled people can truly thrive. As a tenured Professor of Educational Psychology at The University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Cawton has secured over $50 million in federal and other research grants for her groundbreaking work. In 2023, she founded the National Disability Center for Student Success at UT Austin, further advancing her mission to transform educational opportunities for disabled students. Her expertise is deeply informed by personal experience. Born with hearing loss and living with several mental health and physical disabilities that significantly impact her daily life, which brings both professional insight and lived understanding to her roles as researcher, author, and consultant. Here Are The Top Takeaways on Inclusive Disability Workplaces: 1. Accessibility is a Shared Responsibility Accessibility isn't just about individual accommodations - it's about designing environments, communications, and processes that work for everyone. This includes providing materials in advance, using technology like captioning and alt text, and being mindful of ableist language.  Accessibility is not a to-do list. It's a to-be list. Who are you? Who do you want to be? How do you interact with your people? How do you interact in the community with others? How do you demonstrate that disabilities are okay, that they're valued, and that that it's just a part of the human experience." The responsibility falls on all of us - not just the employee with a disability. As leaders, we must model inclusive behaviors and create a culture where accessibility is simply the norm.   2. Shift Mindsets, Not Just Checklists Many organizations treat disability inclusion as a box to check, rather than a foundational part of their culture. But true inclusive disability leadership requires a mindset shift - moving away from ableist assumptions and toward an appreciation of the unique talents and perspectives that people with disabilities bring. "Often, if you feel that vibe that someone's going to look down on you or patronize you, you're not going to disclose. And thus, you Yack that connection with the people in that space because you don't feel like you can disclose." As leaders, we must be transparent about valuing disability, provide structured learning opportunities, and lead by example through our language and behaviors. It's not enough to simply have the right policies in place - we must foster a culture where disability is seen as a normal part of the human experience. 3. Empower Employees to Self-Advocate While it's our responsibility as leaders to build an inclusive environment, we must also empower employees with disabilities to advocate for their own needs. This starts with creating safe spaces for open communication and providing clear guidance on available resources and accommodations. "It's both the disabled person knowing what they need and articulating that well, but then also everyone else,

In today's dynamic business environment, leadership confidence development is essential for guiding teams and driving organizational success. However, confidence alone is not enough to lead effectively—leaders must also build authentic trust with their teams. Trust and confidence are inseparable when fostering productive work environments and ensuring long-term success. In this part II Women’s Leadership Success podcast interview with Lida Citroën, we will explore practical strategies for developing leadership confidence and building authentic leadership trust. Lida Citroën: Mastering the Art of Leadership Influence Lida Citroën is a personal branding and reputation management expert who helps executives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders worldwide shape their public image and seize ideal opportunities. With a track record of guiding thousands of individuals across 30+ countries, Lida offers a transformative approach to personal positioning.   As a dynamic keynote speaker, Lida has captivated audiences through her TEDx Talk and Talks at Google. She also serves as a faculty member at the Institute for Management Studies, delivering impactful seminars across the U.S.   An award-winning author of seven books, Lida recently released The New Rules of Influence: How to Authentically Build Trust, Drive Change, and Make an Impact, offering fresh insights on building influence with authenticity.   https://youtu.be/9BloWnsJCRw?si=ChRaTephWOVU0Hug Leadership Confidence Development: Why It Matters Leadership confidence is the foundation of effective decision-making and influence. Leaders who display confidence are better equipped to inspire others, make strategic decisions, and handle challenges with resilience. However, confidence doesn’t just emerge overnight; it is built through intentional practices. 1. Self-awareness and Emotional Intelligence Self-awareness is key to understanding one’s strengths and growth areas, directly impacting leadership confidence. Leaders who invest in emotional intelligence training can more easily navigate complex team dynamics, boosting their self-confidence. By developing a deeper understanding of one's emotions, one can regulate them and respond to situations with clarity and calm. 2. Continual Learning and Growth Leaders who actively seek to develop new skills and stay up to date with industry trends exude more confidence. By continuously challenging yourself through learning and development opportunities, you stay prepared for changing circumstances, reinforcing your leadership capabilities. 3. Mentorship and Feedback One of the best ways to grow as a leader is to seek mentorship and actively request feedback from peers and team members. By receiving constructive input and applying it, leaders can build confidence in their leadership style while improving performance. This two-way communication also helps build stronger relationships and mutual trust.   Building Authentic Leadership Trust While confidence is critical, building authentic leadership trust sustains long-term success. Trust makes teams follow your lead, invest in your vision, and commit to achieving collective goals. But trust cannot be forced; it must be earned. Consistency in Actions and Words To build trust, leaders must align their actions with their words. Consistency in decision-making, behavior, and communication ensures that team members know what to expect from you. This creates a sense of reliability, which is fundamental to establishing trust.   Transparency and Open Communication Honesty and transparency foster trust within teams. Leaders who are open about their goals, challenges, and expectations build stronger connections with their teams. This authentic communication shows that you value your employees' input and are committed to their growth and the organization’s success.   Empathy and Active Listening Building authentic leadership trust requires empathy.

In the rapidly evolving business world, executive leaders face the challenge of leading their teams and influencing key stakeholders. The most effective leaders aren't just decision-makers; they are influencers. But what does it take to master executive influence techniques? This powerful part I interview delves into the art of mastering executive influence. Executive influence goes beyond authority. It’s about persuasion, connection, and the ability to guide others toward a shared vision. Whether managing up to your board of directors or collaborating with cross-functional teams, mastering these techniques can be a game-changer.Join me Sabrina Braham MA MFT and Lida Citroën as we explore how you can develop your executive influence and impact and advance your career. Lida Citroën: The New Rules of Mastering Executive Influence Lida Citroën (@LIDA360) is a personal branding and reputation management authority who helps global executives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders manage their perceptions and drive toward ideal opportunities. She has helped thousands of individuals in more than 30 countries gain a fresh perspective on positioning themselves for success.   As a professional keynote speaker and presenter, Lida's popular TEDx Talk, Talks at Google presentation, and numerous courses on LinkedIn Learning showcase her empowering coaching style and message. She is also a faculty member for the Institute for Management Studies, presenting seminars throughout the United States. Lida has authored seven award-winning books, and her most recent book, The New Rules of Influence: How to authentically build trust, drive change, and make an impact, just launched. How to Inspire Action and Lead With Authenticity as an Influential Executive Leader Today, we explore how the most influential leaders build trust, communicate strategically, and--- leverage emotional intelligence to inspire action and lead with authenticity.  1. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence Understanding your team's emotions and motivations is crucial. Empathy enables you to tailor your approach, ensuring your message resonates with each individual's unique perspectives. Executive leaders who demonstrate high emotional intelligence not only influence but also foster loyalty and collaboration within their organizations. 2. Strategic Leadership Communication  Master communicators understand that timing, tone, and clarity are everything. Executive influence relies on conveying a clear and compelling message that aligns with your audience's interests. Being concise and transparent helps build trust while leaving little room for misunderstanding. 3. Building Trust and Credibility  Influence without trust is ineffective. As an executive leader, consistently demonstrating competence, integrity, and reliability builds a strong foundation for influence. When people trust your judgment and respect your values, they are more likely to follow your lead. 4. Leveraging Social Capital - Building Strategic Relationships Your network is your net worth in the executive space. Building strategic relationships across departments and industries enhances your influence. When others recognize your ability to connect people and ideas, your ability to influence outcomes grows. 5. Adaptive Leadership  Executive leaders need to be flexible and adaptive. An essential influence technique is understanding when to lead, listen, and empower others to take the reins. Adaptability shows you are responsive to change, an invaluable trait in today's fast-paced business environment. You can lead with authority and authenticity by mastering executive influence techniques and driving personal and organizational success. Conclusion - Mastering Executive Influence Builds Trust and Leadership Success Influence is the key to effective executive leadership. By focusing on emotional intelligence, strategic communication, and building trust,

Did you know that microaggressions in the workplace, often subtle and unintentional, can cost the U.S. workforce $450 to $550 billion in lost productivity yearly, according to Gallup? These small, seemingly insignificant actions or comments can have significant negative impacts on individuals and organizations, leading to lost productivity, low morale, and claims of a hostile work environment. The Impact of Microaggressions on the Workplace Implementing effective **Microaggressions Workplace Strategies** is crucial for mitigating these behaviors' adverse effects on individuals and organizations. Here are some key impacts to consider: Lost Productivity: Microaggressions can accumulate over time, decreasing employee engagement and productivity. When employees feel undervalued or discriminated against, their motivation and performance suffer, ultimately affecting the organization's bottom line.   Low Morale: Repeated microaggressions create a toxic work environment where employees feel uncomfortable, isolated, or marginalized. This environment can result in high turnover rates as employees seek healthier, more inclusive workplaces.   Claims of a Hostile Work Environment: While microaggressions may seem minor in isolation, they can contribute to a pattern of behavior that creates a hostile work environment. Over time, these incidents can become the basis for employment discrimination lawsuits, leading to financial and reputational damage. These impacts underline the importance of developing and implementing **Microaggressions Workplace Strategies** to foster a more inclusive and productive work environment. Expert Insights: Shawn Andrews on Microaggressions Workplace Strategies Shawn Andrews, is the author of The Power of Perception, Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide, and a seasoned expert with over 22 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and a decade focused on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), emotional intelligence, and leadership, provides valuable insights into effective Microaggressions Workplace Strategies. Her work highlights the importance of understanding the impact of our words and actions and fostering a more inclusive environment. In this recent Women’s Leadership Success podcast, Andrews discusses the derogatory use of terms like "DEI hire" and their damaging effects on workplace culture. She emphasizes that while some companies may have hired diverse candidates solely for checkbox purposes in the past, this practice is increasingly rare today due to the abundance of highly qualified candidates across all demographics. Andrews advocates for questioning biases and using empathy to shift perspectives and foster a more inclusive workplace. Questioning Biases and Practicing Empathy During the discussion with Women’s Leadership Success podcast host, Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC, Andrews shared how questioning biases and practicing empathy have successfully shifted perspectives in her experience. For example: - Questioning Biased Comments: When someone makes a biased or insensitive comment, asking them to clarify their meaning or how they arrived at their conclusion can prompt reflection on their assumptions. This opens the door for more thoughtful discussions. - Sharing Personal Stories: Andrews highlights the power of sharing personal experiences that differ from the dominant narrative to build empathy and understanding. Humanizing the experiences of marginalized groups can make it harder for people to dismiss or overlook their challenges. - Active Listening: Actively listening to others, even when their views differ from your own, can help shift rigid mindsets. Andrews notes that approaching conversations with curiosity rather than judgment creates a more conducive environment for learning and growth. These insights from Andrews are essential components of effective Microaggressions Workplace Strategies, which can help organizations foster a more respec...

This month, we revisited the inspiring journey of Patricia Walsh, a Paralympic gold medalist and accomplished tech engineer who has overcome significant challenges and achieved remarkable success. Patricia's story is a testament to the power of resilience, focus, and determination. Here are the key leadership takeaways from my conversation with Patricia, optimized to help you build natural leadership strengths. Embracing Challenges to Foster Resilience Patricia faced the profound challenge of becoming blind at the age of 14. Instead of letting her disability define her, she embraced it as part of her identity and pushed herself to achieve what many thought was impossible. This relentless pursuit of excellence has been a hallmark of her journey. Key Takeaway: Striving for excellence means embracing challenges and using them as stepping stones to reach your full potential. This mindset is crucial for anyone looking to build natural leadership strengths. Overcoming Adversity & Power Beyond Limiting Beliefs Patricia's journey is filled with instances of overcoming adversity. From completing over 20 marathons and two Ironman competitions to transitioning from a role at Facebook to a senior engineering manager position at the Lego Group, Patricia has continuously pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Key Takeaway: Overcoming adversity requires resilience, determination, and the courage to push beyond limiting beliefs. These qualities are essential for developing natural leadership strengths. Building Natural Leadership Strengths in Tech and Beyond Patricia has held significant roles in the tech industry, including her recent position at the Lego Group, where she oversaw several departments. Her leadership extends beyond managing teams; it involves creating an inclusive and supportive environment that values everyone's contributions. Key Takeaway: Effective leadership is more than just overseeing tasks; it's about fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. This approach is vital to build natural leadership strengths in any setting. Achieving the Impossible Patricia's sports and professional achievements highlight her ability to achieve what many thought was impossible. She holds the world record in the Ironman Triathlon and has represented Team USA as a five-time national champion and seven-time international gold medalist. Key Takeaway: Setting and achieving ambitious goals can inspire others and demonstrate that determination can make the impossible possible. This ambition is a core component of natural leadership strengths. Focusing on Leadership Strengths and Talents A significant piece of advice Patricia shares, which resonates with my coaching philosophy, is to: "focus on your strengths and talents rather than weaknesses or handicaps." This mindset has been pivotal in Patricia's success both in her athletic and professional endeavors. Key Takeaway: To have the best life and career possible, focus on leveraging your strengths and talents instead of dwelling on your limitations. This focus is fundamental to build natural leadership strengths. The Importance of Asking for and Offering Help Patricia shared insights about the importance of knowing when to ask for help and not making assumptions about others' needs. She emphasized the value of clear communication and respecting personal autonomy, which is crucial in personal and professional interactions. Sabrina's Insight: "Effective support involves asking how to help and respecting the autonomy and preferences of others." This understanding is essential for anyone aiming to build natural leadership strengths. Authenticity in Leadership Values Being authentic to oneself is another critical lesson from Patricia's journey. Despite the competitive environments she has been part of, Patricia remains committed to her values of fairness and kindness. Key Takeaway: Authentic leadership involves staying true to yo...

Today, let's talk about self-leadership strategies. Do you or someone you know have these leadership issues? How often do you make decisions based on incomplete or biased information? Have you ever considered that your words and actions might be causing misunderstandings, confusion, or even conflict within your team? Are you perceived as out of touch or insensitive to people's needs and concerns? Not sure what leadership soft skill areas you need to improve? (find out below) If so, meet Richard. He graduated from an Ivy League school with many awards and patents. Richard was known for his brilliance, innovation, and ability to accomplish things, so he was on a fast track to promotion. However, Richard was about to face a challenge he had never seen coming. The Challenge Richard's boss informed him that his team was unhappy with him, perceiving him as cold and insensitive to their needs and concerns. The team was not functioning well, with a lot of conflict, and Richard was identified as part of the problem. At first, Richard was angry, believing the team had the problem, not him. He didn't understand how his behavior contributed to the team's tensions until he saw the results of a 360-degree feedback report completed by his team, peers, and boss. The report revealed that his words and actions were causing misunderstandings, confusion, and conflict. Additionally, they felt he was out of touch with or insensitive to their needs and concerns. Richard's Realization and Transformation Richard's story is not unique; many executive leaders face similar issues. Do you, or someone you know, face these challenges? This is a promotion killer! According to a 2023 report by McKinsey and Company, which surveyed 2,500 leaders, only 25% are engaged, passionate, and inspiring. People desire leaders who build respect and consider the ethical consequences of their decisions. They want leaders who inspire and develop others. Harvard Business Review found that while 95% of people believe they are self-aware, tests showed only 10% are truly self-aware. Consequences of Low Self-Awareness A leader with low self-awareness can face numerous challenges that significantly impact their effectiveness and the organization's overall health: 1. Ineffective Communication: Leaders may not realize how their actions affect others, leading to misunderstandings, confusion, and conflict within the team. 2. Limited Personal and Professional Growth: This prevents leaders from recognizing areas where they need to improve. 3. Poor Conflict Resolution: Without understanding their role in conflicts or how their behavior contributes to tensions, leaders struggle to manage and resolve issues, leading to a toxic work environment. 4. Diminished Credibility and Trust: Employees and stakeholders are less likely to trust and respect leaders who lack self-awareness, viewing them as inconsistent, hypocritical, or disconnected, which erodes credibility and authority. Self-Leadership Strategies for Building Self-Awareness How Do You Score? Find Out Below Self-awareness means understanding how we affect those around us, developing a transparent view of our strengths and shortcomings, and recognizing and controlling our emotional responses. Here are some Self-Leadership Strategies to help build self-awareness: 1. Seeking Feedback: Actively schedule meetings to seek feedback from peers, subordinates, and mentors. Ask them to rate you in different areas. Consistent effort and sincerity will engage your team in supporting your improvement.2. Reflection Time: Set aside time in the morning and at the end of the day to reflect on your feelings and the team's needs.3. Increased Accessibility: Hold open office hours and organize informal coffee chats with team members. This effort improves relationships, facilitates better information flow, and enhances collaboration within the team.4. Celebrating Achievements: Recognize and celebrate team achievements regularly.

Welcome to the Road to Leadership Success, a resource for people who want effective leadership productivity strategies to learn faster and accomplish more. I'm Sabrina Braham, your Leadership coach. As your coach, I'm constantly looking for shortcuts to help you succeed in your life and career. If you take 10 minutes to listen to these simple and easy mind hacks, I will share, it could double your productivity. In this episode, I am going to give you two leadership essential tips: How to overcome procrastination, distractions, and interruptions. A scientifically proven method to increase your productivity and innovation. How often do you find yourself procrastinating on tasks or projects? How do interruptions impact your productivity daily? Are you feeling swamped by your tasks? Do you need help to keep up despite your efforts? Well, you're not alone. According to new research conducted in the US by Zippia, the average employee is productive for 2 hours and 53 minutes daily. That’s only 31% of the average 8-hour workday. Most employees feel unproductive because they spend the majority of their workday distracted. Atlassian has discovered that the average employee is interrupted from work around 56 times a day and spends 2 hours recovering from these distractions. How long do you think it takes to recover from a single distraction? According to the research, Refocusing after a distraction takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds. Do you have something you want to do or know you need to do but can’t figure out how to fit it into your schedule or avoid being distracted? Or Your challenge is that you are procrastinating. How much more could you get done if you weren't procrastinating, weren't interrupted, and could you stay focused?  A lot, right? Are you ready to move your productivity AND career to the next level? I've got a proven strategy for you that will enable you to seize opportunities without procrastination, interruptions, or lack of focus. The good news is that I will give you my “Improved Pomodoro Technique” today. This is a proven method for increasing focus, productivity, and creativity. Top Tech Leader Struggles With Productivity & Being Overwhelmed But first, let me tell you a story about Ava, a director in a large company who came to me for executive coaching. She was working long hours and was overwhelmed by all her projects. She was very talented, and one of her coaching goals was to increase exposure to senior management to build a brand and enhance her career. Her senior VP had been brainstorming with her to develop a new product. The meetings were exciting and productive.    Then, they took an unexpected turn. In the last month,  Brad, the director of another department, had begun collaborating with the senior VP on the same project. Now, he was talking to Brad and not to her. Her question to me was: “How can I get the senior VP  to speak and brainstorm with me again? She wanted to know how. Could you continue to provide input on the project and be instrumental in preventing errors?  When I asked her why he should talk to her instead of the other director, she said, “Oh no, he needs to speak to both of us. The other director knows some important information, but I understand the algorithms, and unless they consider them, there will be errors in this project.” I asked what kept her from giving the Senior VP this information. She paused and said, "I'm swamped with less critical projects, which unfortunately prevents me from conducting the necessary research to stay updated on the information required by the Senior VPs for this new product." She looked surprised by her answer. She was startled to discover that she had missed an opportunity because she had filled her schedule with less urgent projects, lacked the time required for necessary research, and had, therefore, missed an opportunity.

Championing Gender Equality: Insights from Two Women Leaders In today's competitive business landscape, women, especially women of color, often face unique challenges on their path to develop leadership influence. Drawing from profound discussions, we delve into actionable strategies for breaking through barriers and nurturing influential leadership.   Overcoming Biases and Building Leadership Influence Join us for an insightful continuation of our interview with renowned author Shelmina Abji. Discover how to combat biases in the corporate world and leverage influence and persuasion within your organization to propel your career forward.   Shelmina Babai Abji: A Trailblazer in Leadership and Gender Equality Shelmina Babai Abji, a former IBM VP and esteemed author, is a vocal advocate for gender equality in leadership. Rising from humble beginnings in Tanzania, she shattered barriers to become one of IBM's highest-ranking women of color. With a track record of delivering over $1 billion in annual revenues, she now inspires and mentors women globally while serving on the advisory board of Girl Up. Armed with computer science and mathematics degrees, Shelmina's expertise is sought after worldwide.   Shelmina Babai AbjiTEDx speaker | Former IBM Vice President | Angel Investor | Author of Show Your Worth Overcoming Internal and External Challenges to Develop Leadership Influence (1:42) Many women face internal barriers from a lack of representation in leadership roles, leading to self-doubt and fear of failure. Additionally, biases from senior leaders can hinder opportunities for advancement. However, recognizing and confronting these challenges is the first step towards overcoming them and learning how to develop leadership influence.   Proactive Relationship Building: Nurturing Connections for Leadership Growth (3:16) Waiting for recognition isn't enough. You must proactively engage with supervisors and stakeholders, showcase your value, and initiate conversations about your achievements. Taking the lead in these interactions ensures that your contributions are acknowledged and valued, nurturing connections for leadership growth and influence.   Advocating for Yourself: Asserting Your Value in the Workplace (4:57) Acknowledging your accomplishments isn't boasting; it's necessary for career advancement. During performance reviews, confidently share your achievements to ensure they're recognized and appreciated. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and your contributions; this is vital in asserting your value and fostering leadership growth and influence.   Embracing Growth and Learning: Steppingstones to Leadership Development (7:00) Failure isn't the end; it's an opportunity for growth. Stepping outside your comfort zone and taking on challenges, even if you encounter setbacks, contributes to your long-term development. Embrace these experiences as valuable learning opportunities to enhance your leadership development influence, skills and impact   Tools for Impact: Strategies for Leadership Development Influence (8:23) Adopting an adventurous mindset in tackling challenges is crucial for growth. Stepping outside your comfort zone builds competence and confidence, essential qualities for effective leadership. Explore intentional growth strategies and embrace opportunities for learning and development to foster leadership growth and influence.   Personal Testimony and Empowerment: Inspiring Others to Lead (10:45) Personal stories of resilience and perseverance are potent reminders of our potential for growth and success. By sharing our experiences and insights, we empower others to unlock their leadership potential and overcome obstacles in their path, thus inspiring others to lead and develop their influence.   The Power of Mentorship: Guiding Paths to Leadership Excellence (11:23) Mentorship plays a significant role in career development. Finding the right mentors and sponsors can accelerate your growth and provide invalua...

How did a woman of color who grew up in poverty in Tanzania overcome leadership self-doubt and go on to become a tech leader and Vice President at IBM, even though she was a single mother and battled imposter syndrome? A Women's Leadership Success Podcast interview with Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC.

Are you ready to embark on a journey of personal and professional growth? Welcome to "ROAD TO Leadership SUCCESS," a transformative podcast series curated by Women's Leadership Success and presented by the seasoned coach and mentor, Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC. In this special episode, we're diving deep into the essence of executive leadership confidence development, delivering bite-sized episodes packed with actionable tips and insights to propel your career and life forward. What to Expect: In each power-packed episode, Sabrina draws upon over 30 years of executive coaching, research, and psychology expertise. With a commitment to lifelong learning and a wealth of knowledge gleaned from fifteen years of podcast interviews with thought leaders, Sabrina distills key leadership principles into digestible nuggets of wisdom. Whether you're a junior manager or a seasoned CEO, these episodes are tailored to empower leaders at every stage of their journey. Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC Why Tune In:Are you yearning to overcome self-doubt and unlock your full potential? "ROAD TO Leadership SUCCESS" is dedicated to helping you shatter limiting beliefs and adopt proven strategies that have propelled countless leaders to success. With Sabrina as your guide, you'll discover how to navigate the challenges of leadership with confidence, resilience, and clarity. When to Listen:Twice a month, carve out 10-15 minutes from your schedule to tune in to our bite-sized episodes. These episodes complement our regular in-depth interviews with top thought leaders and authors, providing a holistic approach to executive leadership confidence development. In This Episode:In our inaugural episode, Sabrina shares three transformative tips to cultivate and advance your confidence as a leader. But before we delve into those, let's meet Melinda, a director at a Fortune 500 company who grappled with self-doubt despite her professional success. Melinda's Story:Melinda was well-liked by her team and management, but beneath her poised exterior, she battled a relentless lack of confidence. Despite her accomplishments, she felt she wasn't living up to her potential, both personally and professionally. Sleepless nights and a sense of overwhelm plagued her as she struggled to balance work and family life. It wasn't until she sought guidance from Sabrina that she realized the root cause of her self-doubt: an internal critic echoing the voice of her past. Through Sabrina's coaching, Melinda learned to distinguish between her inner critic and her inner coach, paving the way for newfound confidence and clarity. 3 Key Takeaways from Melinda's Journey: Recognize and silence your inner critic. Quiet the critical voice in your head and take control of the narrative you tell yourself. Replace self-doubt with self-confidence by visualizing yourself succeeding and thriving in various scenarios. Explore how adopting a confident mindset changes your actions and interactions with others. Embrace a growth mindset to navigate setbacks with resilience. Adopt a growth mindset, recognizing that failure is not personal or terminal. Instead, view setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement. Challenge the fixed mindset narrative of "I am a loser" or "I am a failure" with the belief that you can grow, adapt, and continuously improve. Practice emotional control to project confidence in every interaction. Develop the ability to regulate your emotions and mood. Experiment with techniques to shift from a negative to a positive mindset, even in challenging situations. Remember that you have the power to master your emotions and cultivate a sense of inner calm and confidence. Incorporate Kaizen Philosophy: Embrace the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen, which emphasizes continuous improvement through minor adjustments and consistent effort. Remember that even small, incremental changes can lead to significant growth over time.

Leadership career negotiation skills are essential for a thriving leadership career. Welcome to the Women's Leadership Success podcast #128, your go-to resource for learning crucial negotiation skills. In part one of this special two-part series, we explored the foundational tools of a master negotiator. In part two, we will guide you on applying these skills to navigate negotiations between departments, advance your career, a salary raise, or even land a better job in a new company. Mark Rafffan: Leadership Career Negotiation Skills Women's Leadership Success Podcast 128 Key Points Negotiation Skills for Leadership & Career Development Negotiating Between Departments for a Successful Leadership Career: Mark emphasizes that negotiation isn't just external; it's equally crucial internally. Learn how to strategically position your department strategically, showcasing the unique value it brings compared to others. Gain insights into preparing for internal negotiations and gaining a competitive edge, laying the foundation for a successful leadership career. Building Influence and Credibility in Leadership Career Negotiations: Uncover the secrets to enhancing your influence within the organization. Mark delves into the difference between positional power and absolute power, emphasizing the importance of understanding who holds influence and how to leverage it effectively for a thriving leadership career. Persuasion vs. Manipulation in Leadership Career Negotiations: Mark distinguishes between persuasion and manipulation, underlining the importance of positive intent in negotiation. Gain insights into how influence plays a crucial role in projecting persuasion publicly, ensuring authenticity in your leadership career negotiations. Steps to Persuade a Counterparty in Leadership Career Negotiations: Explore the three essential steps to persuade a counterparty successfully. Mark highlights the significance of emotional appeal, credibility, and ethical considerations in negotiation, crucial elements for a successful leadership career. Negotiating Salary for Leadership Career Advancement: For those navigating salary negotiations, Mark provides valuable advice. Understand the importance of clarity in your asks, realistic expectations relative to the market, and the art of asking for more while remaining grounded—a crucial aspect of advancing your leadership career. The Power of Taking Time in Leadership Career Negotiations: Learn the effectiveness of saying, "Can I get back to you?" in negotiations. Mark highlights how taking time to think through decisions can lead to more favorable outcomes, a powerful strategy for advancing your leadership career. Leadership & Career Negotiation Skills - Action for Traction Be sure to listen to part I on Executive Leadership Negotiation Skills with Mark Raffan and me for a better foundation for these negotiation strategies. Elevate your negotiation skills and empower your leadership and career impact today! Book Your Complimentary Leadership & Career Advancement Session with Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC Executive Leadership Coach If you’re ready to elevate your leadership and negotiation skills, supercharge your career, and boost your income beyond your expectations, it’s time to schedule your complimentary Leadership & Career Development Session with me. I’ve worked with over 250 managers, directors, VPs, and C-Suite leaders, and their success stories speak for themselves (see my 41 LinkedIn client recommendations here). As a seasoned executive coach specializing in leadership and career development, I understand women leaders’ unique challenges, including confidence, compelling storytelling, and navigating the complexities of corporate politics. My mission is to empower professionals like you to master the art of successful leadership, unlock your full capability, and achieve career advancement at a pace you never thought possib...

Executive Leadership Negotiation Skills - Part I of II There are many situations in life where you need to negotiate. It could be asking for a raise, a job offer, selling or buying property, or a sales contract. If you want to be successful in those endeavors you need to learn the art of negotiating. In this podcast episode, you will discover the art of negotiation mindset, strategic planning, and practical tips for enhancing your influence. In part two of the show coming soon, we delve into leveraging these negotiation skills so you know how to negotiate between departments, increase your influence and persuasion, and negotiate your salary for a new, better job.  The Negotiation Mindset  Unlock the power of negotiation by adopting a mindset of curiosity and active listening. Join us as Mark Raffan, a negotiation teacher, emphasizes the importance of viewing negotiation as an exploration rather than a confrontation. Learn why introverts often make the best negotiators and discover the transformative impact of asking compelling questions.   Executive Leadership Negotiation Skills Expert  Mark Rafffan is an award-winning negotiation trainer, renowned speaker, and the author of "9 Secrets to Win Deals and Influence Stakeholders." Mark's journey into negotiation expertise began in a family of entrepreneurs, where he discovered his passion for selling, negotiating, and managing conflict. With a corporate sales and procurement background across diverse industries, Mark's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Negotiations Ninja blog, podcast, and training company. Born out of a desire to evangelize effective negotiation practices, the platform quickly gained global recognition, drawing readers and listeners worldwide. In part I and part II of this leadership podcast interview, Mark and Sabrina will help you confidently elevate your executive leadership negotiation skills.    Avoiding Common Leadership Negotiation Mistakes  Navigate the pitfalls of negotiation by addressing the single biggest mistake – lack of planning. Mark Raffan dismantles the myth perpetuated by the media that negotiation is an innate trait rather than a learned skill. Gain valuable insights into the counterintuitive concept of planning concessions and understanding what you're willing to give up for a successful negotiation.   Negotiation Strategic Planning and Concessions  In this episode, we delve into the complexities of strategic planning in negotiations. Understand a deal's economic and emotional drivers and learn how to unravel the other party's motivations. Mark Raffan and Sabrina Braham, MA MFT PCC, share practical advice on breaking aspirational goals into success drivers, paving the way for a mutually beneficial deal. How to Influence Decision-Makers  Learn the art of influencing decision-makers by identifying major and minor influencers. Discover the significance of understanding industry intricacies and the emotional drivers behind decisions. Gain practical insights into asking the right questions to unveil key influencers and shape successful negotiation strategies.   Debunking Win-Win Negotiation and Practical Insights  Mark challenges Sabrina on the traditional notion of "win-win" in negotiations. Find out why Mark Raffan sheds light on the fallacy of expecting equal value distribution and advocates for a more realistic approach. Tune in for controversial yet eye-opening perspectives on negotiation dynamics and discover actionable insights to elevate your executive leadership negotiation skills.   Your Leadership Negotiation Success Key Takeaways    Embrace Curiosity: Cultivate a negotiation mindset centered around curiosity and active listening to uncover hidden opportunities and build meaningful connections.   Strategic Planning: Break down aspirational goals into actionable success drivers, understanding a deal's economic and emotional drivers.   Plan Your Concessions: Counterintuitively,

Unleashing the Power of Leadership Soft Skills Development and Career Advancement In the dynamic world of professional growth and personal fulfillment, mastering the art of leadership soft skills development is the key to unlocking your full potential. In a recent insightful conversation, renowned executive coach, speaker, and author Peggy Klaus and executive leadership and career advancement coach Sabrina Braham MA MFT PCC explored the profound impact of these skills on your career. The Leadership Soft Skills Revolution Peggy Klaus, a leading expert in soft skills leadership brand development and author of "The Hard Truth about Soft Skills" and "Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It.” highlighted the evolving recognition of the importance of soft skills in today's professional landscape. This shift has made it clear that mastering these skills is crucial to personal and brand development. These skills encompass a wide range of personal, social, communication, and self-management behaviors, including self-awareness, adaptability, resilience, confidence, risk-taking, and critical thinking. The Foundation of Your Leadership Success: Self-Awareness The conversation started with a deep dive into self-awareness, the cornerstone of leadership brand development. Understanding what drives you, how you think, and how you feel is essential to excel in your career and align your work with your true passions and interests. Your brand development journey begins with self-awareness, ensuring you are talented and passionate about your work. Debunking the "Luck" Myth Peggy Klaus further emphasized the role of soft skills in your leadership brand development to dispel the myth of luck in career success. She asserted that success isn't merely a result of luck or wishing for it. Instead, it's about hard work, self-awareness, resilience, and the ability to learn and adapt. Those who focus on leadership soft skills and brand development are better equipped to open themselves up to new opportunities, transforming those "lucky breaks" into calculated achievements. Handling Criticism and Seeking Feedback: Keys to Effective Brand Development The conversation also delved into strategies for handling criticism and seeking feedback, integral aspects of leadership soft skills and brand development. Active listening, staying curious, and not taking criticism personally are pivotal. Peggy advised individuals to embrace criticism as an opportunity for growth. Adopting this approach enables you to address and incorporate feedback into your brand development journey effectively. Shaping Your Leadership Brand with Effective Communication Executive brand development is an ongoing process. Peggy Klaus recommended creating a "brag bag" to collect achievements, compliments, and positive feedback. This resource is invaluable for promoting yourself and building a solid leadership brand. Please don’t assume your work speaks for itself; actively communicate your achievements and impact to enhance your brand. Your Leadership Brand: Staying Visible in a Remote World As remote work becomes more prevalent, staying visible is challenging to develop your leadership brand. Sending brief updates to colleagues and bosses about your projects and achievements is essential. Initiating a "brag round" is another technique to foster connection and awareness in remote work environments, a strategy aligned with Leadership soft skills development. Personal and Professional Growth: The Ultimate Brand Development The conversation focused on personal and professional growth, a significant aspect of leadership soft skills development. Peggy Klaus emphasized the importance of self-reflection and seeking feedback to shape your brand. She encouraged individuals to take ownership of their strengths and actively manage their time. Additionally, she recommended a book titled "Nine Lies About Work" by Marcus Buckingham,

Influencing, inspiring, and persuading are vital in leadership and executive communication. One of the most effective tools at a leader's disposal is the art of storytelling. In part I of this 2-part Women's Leadership Success podcast, Sabrina interviews David Garfinkel, author of The Persuasion Story Code, about how leaders use persuasion stories to achieve their objectives, whether it's inspiring their teams, selling ideas, or establishing credibility. Understanding the Power of Persuasion Stories Leaders often find themselves in situations where they need to convey ideas, build trust, and foster engagement. Persuasion stories offer a unique approach to achieving these goals:   1:  Establishing Credibility: Leaders can use stories to humanize themselves, making them more relatable and trustworthy, particularly when dealing with new clients or stakeholders.   2: Creating Emotional Connections: Persuasion stories tap into emotions, enabling leaders to connect with their audience on a deeper level, making it easier for them to understand and embrace ideas.   3: Simplifying Complex Concepts: Leaders often grapple with intricate strategies and concepts. Stories can simplify these ideas, making them more accessible to a broader audience, especially in cross-functional discussions.   4: Enhancing Engagement: Stories capture attention and engage the audience, ensuring the message resonates and sticks with them.   David Garfinkel, a Renowned Author and Persuasive Communication Expert With his bestselling book, "The Persuasion Story Code," David has earned acclaim from prestigious publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Forbes.com, Entrepreneur Magazine, Fast Company, and The Los Angeles Times. David's expertise has left an indelible mark on various businesses, including industry giants like IBM and United Airlines, medium-sized enterprises, and even solo entrepreneurs. His strategic guidance has consistently led to substantial revenue increases, totaling tens of millions of dollars, all achieved through persuasive messaging. In addition to his groundbreaking work in persuasion, David is the author of another bestseller, "Breakthrough Copywriting." Furthermore, he brings a wealth of experience as the former San Francisco Bureau Chief for McGraw-Hill World News. Join David Garfinkel and Sabrina Braham, MA MFT PCC, and learn how leaders use persuasion stories that can transform your career and leadership success. "People often receive bad advice when it comes to using stories for persuasion. In reality, stories can be simple and powerful tools, just like the ones we use in everyday conversations." David Garfinkel Crafting Persuasion Stories for Leadership Success: How Leaders Use Persuasion Stories     1: Personal Origin Stories: Leaders can share their personal journeys, highlighting pivotal moments and their commitment to the organization's mission. This type of story showcases dedication and inspires loyalty among team members.    2: Unexpected Future Benefits Stories: Leaders can paint a vivid picture of the positive outcomes their ideas can bring, focusing on how these proposals benefit both the organization and individual team members. This approach fosters a sense of shared success and alignment with the leader's vision. The Importance of Audience Awareness: Leaders must thoroughly understand their audience's needs, frustrations, and concerns. Identifying universal themes and addressing common issues can make the stories more relatable. Planning the Steps to Persuasion: Leaders should consider the steps required for persuasion, as only some stories need to lead directly to a final decision. Steps may include building rapport, establishing trust, opening minds to new ideas, and demonstrating expertise.   Incorporating Persuasion Stories into Leadership Communication The key to success lies in integrating persuasion stories naturally into leadership communic...