Time and again, I’ve encountered incredibly capable women being perceived as lacking a commanding presence. This perception can be career-limiting because executive presence is deemed crucial for inspiring trust and motivating teams. Today, I want to unpack this notion and explore how every one of us can project power in our roles by embracing our big boss energy.

Women often face a double bind: we're expected to be nurturing and excel in soft skills, yet we also need to assert ourselves to be seen as leaders. If we adopt traditional leadership styles, we might be judged negatively for not being feminine enough. Conversely, if we stick to more stereotypically feminine styles, we might not be seen as leaders. This conflicting expectation makes it tough to navigate the leadership landscape.

How do we hold these conflicting truths? By understanding that being a female leader doesn’t mean compromising on our strengths. It means defining what big boss energy looks like for each of us, owning our path, and confidently stepping up when necessary.

Creating big boss energy begins with understanding our purpose – knowing what drives us. This clarity fuels our motivation and confidence, allowing us to step out of our comfort zones and assert our presence. It’s not about being loud or aggressive, but about being visible, sharing our ideas, and projecting a commanding presence.

Now, a commanding presence doesn’t mean being one-dimensional. It's about having a toolkit of skills that can be adapted to different situations. Emotional intelligence, confidence, and strong communication skills are vital. Women can command a room and lead effectively while staying empathetic and genuine to who they are.

Consider leaders like Jacinda Ardern, former PM of New Zealand, who led with strength in a very untraditional way. She showcased how to lean into one's true self and still command respect and achieve great outcomes.

So, how do we create this commanding presence and get noticed as leaders? Understand your purpose and align it with your team's vision. Communicate clearly and compellingly to engage and inspire action. Non-verbal communication also plays a significant role – your body language and energy can make a substantial impact.

We also need to be willing to push past our comfort zone. Women often fear being seen as domineering, resulting in them playing it too safe. Confidence grows from stepping out of comfort zones and practising assertiveness without aggression. It's about building capability incrementally – no one wakes up fully confident one day; it’s a process of continual growth and resilience.

Ultimately, cultivating big boss energy means standing confidently in who we are, showing up with self-awareness, and understanding our motivations. Bringing energy and enthusiasm to our roles, we become powerful forces, shifting perceptions and driving impact.
So, as we conclude, take a moment to think deeply about who you are and what that strong, confident version of you looks like. And remember leadership isn't about titles or positions. It’s about our energy, presence, and ability to effect change.

LINKS:

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

What leadership shadow are you casting on your team?

Are you even aware of the tone you’re setting in the workplace, and how it might be affecting the organisation?

As leaders, we really do have the power to create a positive work environment - as well as a toxic one. However, we often don’t realise just how impactful our habits, actions and overall leadership style can be on those around us.

By understanding what your leadership shadow is, you can begin to intentionally create one that aligns with who you want to be and how you want to influence others in your team, organisation and in your industry.

So, what is a leadership shadow?

Essentially, it's how a leader's behaviours, actions and decisions cast a shadow over their team, which ultimately influences organisational culture and performance. Our shadows often have both positives and negatives and because we’re in the middle, we don't necessarily see the amount of influence and impact we have.

Today, we'll explore developing an awareness around what our leadership shadow is and how to use it to create a strong, cohesive and high-functioning team.

The concept of a leadership shadow was developed by Pine Street, part of Goldman Sachs's leadership development team, and it comprises four key elements: what I say, how I act, what I prioritise and how I measure.

We’ll also explore three key components from a practical standpoint:

1. Role Modelling

2. Behavioural Impact

3. Communication Styles

Intentional cultivation of a positive leadership shadow starts with self-awareness and reflection. Although developing self-awareness is challenging, it can be achieved through self-reflection, feedback, assessments and regular check-ins.

So, what does your leadership shadow look like right now? What are its positive and negative aspects? I encourage you to seek feedback from those around you to gain insights you may not see.

Remember, we are all a work in progress. Being transparent about your journey fosters support and encourages others to think about their own leadership shadow. When everyone is aligned and working towards the same goal, that's when we see incredibly strong leaders and cultures that achieve sustained results.

LINKS:

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

Have you ever felt trapped by your own high standards, constantly striving for flawless performance but finding yourself exhausted and unfulfilled? You're not alone. Many women working in male-dominated fields like property and construction grapple with the relentless pursuit of perfection.

That’s why I want to break down what perfectionism is, what it isn’t, and the grim consequences it can have. Don’t worry though, I’ll also be sharing three practical tips to help you break free from its grasp.

What Is Perfectionism?

Perfectionism is the tendency to set excessively high standards for oneself and to strive for flawless work. This goes hand in hand with critical self-evaluation and a constant concern about others' opinions. In our professional realms, this often manifests in over-preparing and an extreme attention to detail, which can drive dissatisfaction and burnout.

The implications of perfectionism are extensive. It keeps us entrenched in procrastination, avoiding risks, and staying within our comfort zones. This impasse limits our potential and opportunities—straining not just our stress levels but also our relationships and overall productivity. Speaking from personal experience as a recovering perfectionist, I know how easy it is to spend too much time planning and to hesitate in delegating tasks—a habit that ultimately stunts our growth.

So, how can we move away from this perfectionist mindset and start taking more impactful action? Here are three tips to help you break free from perfectionism:

1. Focus on High-Value Work

Shift your focus to high-value tasks—those that are critical to your role and cannot be delegated. Eliminate tasks that don't add value, and delegate where possible. For example, while preparing a presentation, you might focus on crafting the key messages and desired outcomes, while a junior team member handles formatting.

2. Set Boundaries Around Time and Effort

Planning and adhering to time constraints is essential. According to Parkinson's Law, work expands to fill the time allocated to it. Therefore, setting definite time limits for tasks can prevent perfectionist tendencies from taking over. You’ll also need to accept that not everything has to meet an A+ standard; sometimes B or B- work is perfectly adequate.

3. Practise a Growth Mindset

Our careers are a journey, and every day we have opportunities to improve. Embrace feedback, review what worked and what didn’t, and make necessary adjustments. Show up intentionally with a growth mindset, understanding that discomfort is part of the process, but it will lead to exponential career growth and fulfilment.

I know letting go of perfectionism isn’t as easy as I’ve made it sound. It’s difficult and uncomfortable - trust me, I've been there. But once you start releasing the need for everything to be perfect, you'll find you have so much more time and energy for the stuff that really matters.

LINKS:

Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

When I first started navigating my career, I was like many others—relying heavily on the support and guidance of those closest to me. My immediate circle of friends, family, and colleagues played a crucial role in my development.

But as I ventured further into my career, I realised something unexpected: the people who know us best, while loving and supportive, often limit us with their perceptions of who we've been, rather than who we can become.

We all have those moments where we yearn to break free from our comfort zones. Whether it’s nominating ourselves for that prestigious award, vying for a major promotion, or pivoting to a completely new career path, it’s these critical junctures that require us to look beyond our immediate circle. In today's episode, I break down the differences between close and loose connections.

At the end of the day, the journey to a successful and fulfilling career is not just about what you know but also about who you know. And sometimes, it’s the looser connections that make all the difference. They bring fresh perspectives and new opportunities that your close connections, for all their love and support, might inadvertently shield you from.

LINKS:

Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

I see it time and time again.

Women who are passionate, driven, and ready to make a significant impact in their careers often find themselves at a crossroads. They aspire to have fulfilling and rewarding careers, yet when asked what exactly they want or what their focus is, they draw a blank.

The advice I give my clients is to know your focus. Simplify your focus so you can amplify your results. This clarity is the key to having a remarkable and successful career. I usually ask my clients one crucial question: "What do you want to be known for?" Most people have never stopped to really think about this. They don’t know what they’re great at, what they do better than others, or what unique value they bring that sets them apart.

When we step into the workforce, we aim to check all the boxes, proving our capability and building the necessary skillset and knowledge for our profession. While this approach secures us a job, it doesn't necessarily open doors or make us stand out.

It's particularly important to know your focus as you advance in your career, especially after the initial five to ten years when you start stepping into more significant roles. By intentionally deciding what you want to be known for and channelling your energy toward it, you can distinguish yourself and be recognised.

Embracing this clarity can be uncomfortable because it demands stepping out of our comfort zones, taking risks, and facing fears of failure and embarrassment. Our brains resist simplifying our focus, distracting us with the potential for immediate gratification from tasks we already know how to do.

Take a project manager. One who is good at their job ticks all the boxes and can be relied upon. But a project manager with exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder relationship skills? They stand out. People say, "Put them in a room with anyone, and they'll manage the situation and create a positive outcome, even amid conflict."

Simply put, being good is not enough. You want to be known for something specific. This requires intention and focus, which extends beyond merely doing your job—it’s about developing a personal brand and skillset that makes you a go-to person in your industry.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your next career move, I encourage you to get clear on your focus. Remember, there are no absolute right or wrong career decisions, only different paths. Your focus might change over time, and that’s okay. What’s important is having that clarity now to shift your trajectory and aim higher.

LINKS:

Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

Do you ever find yourself waiting for someone else to recognise your potential before you take the next big step in your career? You're not alone. Waiting for external validation is the biggest thing I see holding women back in their careers, and it’s understandable.

It feels good to have someone acknowledge our achievements, and we feel safer with a pat on the back or words of encouragement. However, if we’re looking to others for permission, we end up playing small. Not only will it be difficult to progress, but it can cause frustration, dissatisfaction in our work, and even resentment towards colleagues and superiors.

Imagine that a job is posted within your organisation for your dream role, but no one has approached you about it. You could take this to mean you aren’t good enough for the role. This feeling of inadequacy might cause you not to apply for the job, or to apply half-heartedly.

On the other hand, if you focus on your excitement about the opportunity, you’re more likely to put in 100%. You’ll have the energy to prepare a great application, ask questions, and connect with the decision-makers. Even if you don’t land the job, you’ll have made a lot of progress in this process.

Now we know the statistics: women make up only 12.5% of the property and construction workforce, and women in trades are a mere 3.5%. To truly increase women’s participation in our industry, we need to stop waiting for positions of power and instead take the initiative to advocate for ourselves.

Yes, this is hard, but no one else is going to do it for us. We need to take ownership of our lives and careers to move them forward in line with our goals. Many women find this challenging because we are often taught to put others’ needs before our own. But, if we want to step into our full potential, we need to give ourselves permission to succeed without looking for external validation.

So, think about what it will take for you to step up and lead in your career, life, and organisation. Reflect on what you need to believe about your abilities and the obstacles in your path. I support women every day in facing these challenges, so I know it’s possible for you too. If you need support, feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn. I’m excited to see what you can achieve when you stop waiting for permission.

LINKS:

Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

I speak to women all the time who feel stuck in their careers. They dream of making a big impact in the world and achieving great things, but they don't know how to move forward. If you can relate to this feeling, stay tuned because today I’m sharing how to take those significant leaps and move the needle forward so you can realise that rewarding and fulfilling career you've always dreamt of. First, I want to highlight the three main reasons why I see women feeling stuck in their careers:
1. Ambition Without Direction: Many of you have grand career aspirations and want to make an impact, but you aren’t sure how to get there. Without a clear roadmap, the journey can seem daunting and unachievable, so it’s easier to just stay put.

2. Self-Doubt and Lack of Motivation: Some women get stuck in their careers because they feel unmotivated, undervalued, and unsure of themselves. This self-doubt, and maybe even imposter syndrome, doesn’t just impact your work but all areas of your life.

3. Work-Life Imbalance: Taking on too many commitments or chronically working long hours will take a toll on your health and your relationships. You end up depleted, with no time or energy for things outside of work.

These issues are even more prevalent for women working in male-dominated industries like property. Not only do women have to overcome significant biases in the workplace, but they are also often held to a higher standard than their male counterparts. This frustrating environment leads to burnout and is the reason many women leave for other industries.
But it’s essential to remember that change will come if more women stay in the industry, rise through the ranks, and become the role models they didn’t have. I know it’s a tall order, but by showing up and contributing to this change, we can also achieve the fulfilling careers we dream of.
So, how do we do that? The key is to create a strategic, career plan and that means stepping back to think about your career from a broad, long-term perspective.
1. Develop a roadmap that integrates your career goals, personal values, and desired lifestyle.
2. Develop the ability to seize opportunities in real-time, and stay committed to continuous learning, and personal growth.
3. Identify what you are good at and where you need improvement.
4. Build a network that surrounds you with people who support your goals.

A strategic career plan is different from a short-term career or development plan. While short-term plans focus on specific milestones, a strategic plan sets long-term goals and creates a vision for your future. Think about what you want to achieve in your career over the next 10 or 20 years. Focus on your values and create systems to support them. Define what meaningful action looks like for you and take steps to align your efforts with your long-term goals.

If you need help getting started with your strategic career plan, reach out to me on LinkedIn. I’m happy to give pointers and get those creative juices flowing. You've got this, my friend. Enjoy the process, and I look forward to seeing you thrive.

LINKS:
Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:
Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership
Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch
Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/

Recently at bootcamp, I had the chance to celebrate with my trainer, Justin, who has been in the personal training business for 14 years. That's no small feat given that most businesses don't make it past their fourth year. Additionally, surviving through COVID-19 and maintaining a loyal client base is remarkable.

So I asked Justin about the keys to his success, and his response was golden: “Don't let the highs get too high, and don't let the lows get too low." I think this is great advice, knowing from personal experience how easy it is to fall prey to emotions when things aren’t going well.

Justin also pointed me towards Roger Federer’s Dartmouth speech, where he speaks perfectly to the idea that consistency, persistence and resilience are key to enduring success.

Today, I’m talking about the invaluable lessons learnt from Federer’s speech and how we can implement these essential aspects in our careers and personal lives to reach the excellence we desire.

We’ll explore how ‘effortlessness’ is a myth that can be detrimental to our growth, and the reality of practice and commitment being the foundations of becoming who we aspire to be.

We live in a society that craves instant gratification, but true excellence requires embracing the grind. It's about doing the boring, tedious tasks each day, and being okay with the awkwardness and discomfort that come with growth. Just as a pianist can't perform a concerto without years of practice, we can't excel without putting in the time and effort to hone our skills.

When we let go of the unrealistic expectation to be perfect and instead focus on showing up and improving incrementally, we make significant strides toward our goals. Life, whether it's balancing work and family or aiming for professional excellence, is a journey filled with failures and successes. Embracing this process frees us to enjoy the moment and commit to continuous growth.

So, take time to reflect on what you want to achieve, why it matters and make the commitment to persistently show up for yourself. This will not only improve your life, but the lives of those around you.

Your voice and impact as a leader are needed in the world. Why shouldn't it be you?

LINKS:

Roger Federer Speech

Mid-Year Check-In Guide

Connect With Me:

Exceptional Leadership Framework: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/5-step-framework-to-exceptional-leadership

Book your strategy call: https://calendly.com/rebeccabangura/get_in_touch

Website: https://www.rebeccabangura.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabangura/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrebeccabangura/