Maintaining Professional Integrity as a Woman

When Integrity Prevails: Lessons from an Unexpected Twist In leadership, unexpected challenges can test resilience and integrity. Recently, I had a client whose situation highlighted both. Her team was thriving, delivering beyond expectations. Yet, out of the blue, her boss urged her to resign, citing the CEO’s supposed request. Rather than accepting this without question, she decided to seek clarity directly from the CEO, only to uncover a startling reality: the CEO had been told by her boss that she wanted to leave, not the other way around. Once the truth came out, it was her boss who was dismissed, and she was promoted. This experience underscores several powerful lessons for professionals at any level: 1. Transparency is Key: When something seems off, seek clarity with those who matter. In this case, a direct conversation with the CEO revealed the truth. Transparency can quickly dissolve misunderstandings and reveal agendas. 2. Trust but Verify: Even senior leaders can have misaligned motives. When life-altering decisions hinge on someone’s word, it's wise to confirm critical details, especially if they significantly impact your career. 3. Speak Up Early: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Addressing concerns openly—sooner rather than later—can prevent larger issues from unfolding. By speaking up, my client preserved her career and reputation. 4. Maintain Senior Connections: Cultivating relationships with key executives fosters alignment and offers support in challenging situations. This network can be crucial, especially when intermediaries may misrepresent intentions. 5. Integrity Wins: Ultimately, her track record and ethical approach worked in her favor. This situation reinforces that consistent performance and integrity are the best safeguards against misrepresentation. In the corporate world, challenges like these can seem daunting. However, by staying true to our values, prioritizing transparency, and advocating for ourselves, we not only protect our careers but also model resilience for our teams. This story serves as a reminder: in the end, integrity has a way of winning out.

Is taking clients to strip clubs part of the job description? Asking for women in sales everywhere. When I first started climbing the ranks in sales, I knew I’d have to work harder and smarter to prove myself. What I didn’t expect was that closing a major deal would somehow still not be enough. Here’s what went down: I landed the best client in the city. The one everyone wanted. I built the relationship, crushed the pitch, and locked in the deal. I was riding high, thinking, Finally, my work speaks for itself. Not so fast. But my boss wasn’t impressed. Instead, he pulled me aside and said, “You know, maybe Eric should handle this account moving forward. He can take the client out to the strip clubs and really seal the relationship.” Excuse me, what? I stared at him, thinking surely he was joking. He wasn’t. Apparently, my refusal to play along with the Boys’ Club antics was a business risk. Here’s the kicker: the client didn’t care about strip clubs. He cared about results. And I was delivering. The idea that “client relationships” were built on wings and pole dances was an outdated playbook written by men who didn’t want to share the sandbox. I stood my ground. I kept the client. And I proved that professionalism, competence, and integrity will always outweigh gimmicks and stereotypes. For every woman who’s been told she’s not a “team player” because she won’t compromise her values: Here’s the truth: You don’t need to play by their rules to win the game. Now, let’s talk: What’s the wildest, most outdated expectation you’ve had to navigate at work?

I never encourage people to stay where they are being harmed. So if you can leave, make that move! However, if you can't immediately do so, or you’re in the hallway waiting for the next door to open, here’s what you can do: 1. Elevate your emotional intelligence even if that of your manager is low. You don't have to lower yours. You can still lead without the title. High emotional intelligence isn’t reserved for people managers. Your actions and attitude can inspire others, regardless of your position. Use your voice. Speak up to be added to projects and do your research on professional development courses or conferences you'd like to participate in.🗣️ 2. Advocating for yourself is crucial in any career. Don't be afraid to express your interest. Researching and being well-prepared shows your commitment and dedication to your growth, which can be appreciated by your superiors…or recruiters. 3. Avoid the gossip. Create your boundaries and maintain them. Office gossip can be tempting, but it rarely leads to anything positive. Dodging the dissing will maintain your integrity and build a reputation as someone who is trustworthy and professional. And when you leave, you can leave with your hands and mind clean. 4. Journal to release and document to defend. Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool for managing stress and documenting your experiences at work. Use it to release your emotions. It can also serve as a record of your accomplishments and interactions, which can be handy when it comes time for performance reviews or addressing workplace issues. 5. Find a therapist if you can—process work issues outside of work. Work-related stress and challenges can take a toll on your mental well-being. Seeking therapy is a proactive step to ensure you have a safe and confidential space to discuss your concerns, manage stress, and develop coping strategies. I tell all my clients to prioritize their well-being over everything. And that they have more power and agency than they know. Be strategic with how you practice self-care around work. Toxic workplaces can really do a number on you. Know your limits. Drop a 💡 if you found these helpful.

Here’s a story I recently heard from a woman executive coaching client, and my advice for her. I’m posting it here because I know it will resonate with many women. It’s a common challenge. “A colleague—someone who’s known me for decades—assumes he knows me inside out. His narrative? Built on fragments of ‘observations’, spun from threads of opinion and confirmation bias. In truth, what he “knows” about me wouldn’t fill a thimble.” 📌 Here's My Advice: 1. Empower Your Narrative: Define yourself by your truths, not by the stories others tell about you. Own your achievements and highlight your unique strengths. 2. Challenge Assumptions Actively: Engage in open dialogue to dismantle misconceptions. Use facts, figures, and results-driven narratives to underscore your professional identity. 3. Seek Allies: Cultivate a network of peers who understand your value and can support your vision. Collaboration with informed colleagues enhances credibility. 4. Stay Resilient: Opinions based on bias can echo in boardrooms, but resilience is key. Continue to show up with authenticity and confidence in your capabilities. 5. Mentor and Advocate: Influence change by mentoring the next generation of women leaders. Share experiences and educate others about the nuances of bias in professional settings. Remember, as women leaders, our stories deserve to be told accurately and with respect. Empower yourself, challenge biases, and shape your professional legacy on your terms. #WomenInLeadership #BreakingTheBias #Empowerment #ExecutiveLeadership #WomenInBusiness #LinkedInWisdom