How women can build professional tribes

70% of communities fail. Mine don't. Here's the framework I use to build them. Most communities fail because they start backwards. They build the platform first, then hope people show up. Here's the 5-step framework I've used to build thriving communities for both women leaders (nearly 2,000 members) and industry organizations (70+ companies): 1) Start with careful participant selection → Don't chase scale. Chase alignment. → One unengaged member can kill the energy. 💎Quality beats quantity every single time. 2) Define your unique connection point → "Professional women" isn't enough. → "Women navigating male-dominated cultures" resonates. 🎯The more specific your shared challenge, the stronger the bond. 3) Build structure that removes social anxiety → Assign teams before people arrive. → Create agendas for every interaction. → Remove the guesswork from "how do I fit in?" 🏠Introverts shouldn't have to act like extroverts to belong. 4) Set clear intention (and enforce it) → No sales pitches allowed. → No toxic positivity or negativity. → Vulnerability is rewarded, not punished. 🛡️Rules create safety. Safety creates connection. 5) Create rituals that build excitement → Annual moments that people protect on their calendars. → Exclusive access that feels special, not business-like. → Traditions that members look forward to all year. 🏆When people guard your event dates before you announce them, you've won. The result? Members who respond to each other's emails. Who refer business to each other. Who genuinely celebrate each other's wins. That's not networking. That's belonging. 👉 Follow Stephanie Eidelman (Meisel) for more ideas about how to increase your visibility and advance your career. 🎫 Stop networking. Start belonging. Join us at WCF 2025, where you'll build the connections that respond to your emails and champion your success. (https://hubs.la/Q03dYbHY0)

Being authentic is great. But evolving in that authenticity is transformative. I believe, I am not alone, when I say, I crave a space where I can be my authentic self. I also experienced, that sometimes, we need to look for that space outside of closest work environment, to be able to go back stronger. A space, free from the pressures of conformity and judgment. A space, with an outside perspective, honest feedback, that is a personal sounding board. This is where a professional tribe comes in. I have shared stories on how I found some of my tribes, what networking means to me. I even shared some podcasts on what some great thinkers say about tribes. What I learnt down the road, is that my tribes help me strengthen my authentic self. I am encouraged to be genuine, share my boldest ideas, and experiment without fear. It's a space where vulnerability is celebrated. Within your tribe, you'll find mentors and friends who offer support and constructive feedback. They help you align your actions with your core values and help you to embrace your unique strengths. And then there's the diversity. My tribe is a melting pot of backgrounds and perspectives. It surely broadens my horizons and challenge my assumptions. It's a constant reminder for me, that there's no single "right" way to be. I think of a tribe like a collective coach, guiding me on a journey of self-discovery and growth. But what makes these tribes so special? It's the: ↳ voluntary participation ↳ absence of hierarchy ↳ shared goals and values Connecting and exchanging inevitably develops your voice, your confidence, and ultimately, your authenticity. Together for a stronger individual. So, have you already found your tribe? Dr. Gitanjali Ponnappa Carla Maldonado, Ph.D. Margaret Breen #bettertogether #tribesatwork #intribewetrust #tlchange

Reading Deloitte’s latest report on female CFOs deeply resonated with me. As someone who works closely with female finance leaders, I see the transformative power of three themes highlighted in the report: 1️⃣ Building a strong support network: None of us can do this alone. Surrounding yourself with coaches, mentors and peers can make all the difference. 2️⃣ Finding your tribe: Authentic connections and shared experiences are a source of strength and growth. Who’s in your corner? 3️⃣ Backing yourself: Confidence isn’t easy, but learning to own your value and step into opportunities can open doors you didn’t think possible. These themes align so closely with the work I do—supporting CFOs as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and grow into even more impactful leaders. If you’re a female CFO or aspiring leader, I encourage you to explore this report. It’s filled with inspiring stories and actionable insights to help you on your journey. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/g6NTzErR #womeninfinance #CFO #leadershipgrowth #leadershipdevelopment #womeninleadership #CFOWomensCircles

Starting a business can feel like you're stranded on your own little island. But here's the secret to thriving: building a strong community around you. When I started my business, connecting with like-minded individuals helped me stay motivated during tough times. Peer groups and mentorship programs were especially important. They kept me going strong and moving forward. They helped me understand my challenges. And they offered advice which made a big difference. I was also able to offer my tips and advice back to them. It was win-win. Through these connections, I not only gained priceless insights. But I also forged lasting bonds that continue to support me today. It also allowed me to take a leap of faith. Those connections have turned into trustworthy friendships.  My key tip to building your own tribe? Start by attending industry events,  joining online forums,  and  reaching out to fellow entrepreneurs. Invest in mastermind groups. Or better yet, start your own mastermind group.  Nurture those connections by offering help, sharing resources, and showing genuine interest in others' success. Over time, you'll cultivate a community that's not just a safety net but a springboard for growth. #community #connection #trust