Talkwalker reposted this
I recently watched Mercedes-Benz AG's "Be One of Many" commercial for International Women's Day. I haven't stopped thinking about it. Because for most of my career, I’ve been the “only.” The first. And for a long time, the youngest (that one resolves itself the quickest 🤣). When you’re in those moments, no one hands you the rulebook. No one explains how the room actually works, how decisions get made, or how you should show up. And the bigger the organization, the lonelier that can feel. I’ve been incredibly fortunate that along the way, three leaders showed up for me. All men. All generous with their time and perspective. They pulled me out of my head, helped me see around corners, and shared lessons from places they had already been. Those conversations shaped me more than they probably realize. Because of that, I now spend a meaningful part of my time doing the same for others. Coaching men and women navigating their first real leadership moments. It can feel lonely. And it doesn’t have to be. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Give to Gain.” So I’m opening something up beyond my usual Owl and personal networks. I’ll host two small group coaching sessions for leaders going through their first major leadership stretch. If you are a first-time leader or VP+ in an organization with 1,000+ employees, comment “Give to Gain.” If someone comes to mind who might benefit, tag them. Regardless of the day, take a moment to pull someone up who is finding their leadership voice. We’re all doing life for the first time. We might as well learn and lean on each other ❤️