Psychologist Alison Fragale - How Women Can Get the Success They Deserve
Nov 18, 2024
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Discover the interplay between kindness and competence in professional settings. Learn how women can assert themselves without sacrificing likability. The conversation delves into effective communication, networking strategies, and the importance of self-awareness. Explore balancing authenticity with strategic self-promotion. Gain insights on reputation building and navigating office politics while staying true to oneself. Plus, practical advice for handling insincere praise while defining your legacy in the workplace!
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Quick takeaways
The concept of a 'likable badass' merges the traits of competence and likability to help women gain workplace respect.
Building status through relationships and genuine interactions is more crucial for success than merely seeking power and influence.
Authenticity combined with strategic impression management allows individuals to embody both caring and assertive qualities effectively.
Deep dives
Defining the Likable Badass
The concept of a 'likable badass' combines two essential traits: being likable and being competent. Likability refers to being other-oriented and caring about the well-being of others, while being a badass indicates reliability and the ability to perform tasks effectively. Achieving a balance between these traits helps individuals gain the respect and value they deserve from others. This approach emphasizes that both men and women seek status, but women, in particular, may face additional challenges in gaining the same level of respect due to societal biases.
Status versus Power
The discussion distinguishes between status and power, highlighting that status, defined as the respect of others, is often more crucial than the possession of power itself. Power involves controlling resources that others value, but respect often precedes influence; people are more likely to grant power to those they respect. This means that individuals should focus on building status first, as it can naturally open doors to greater power. By earning respect through competence and care for others, one can create a pathway to power and influence.
Authenticity and Strategic Presentation
A key theme presented is the importance of being authentic while strategically managing the impression one makes on others. Individuals often believe they need to choose between being likable or assertive, but it is possible to embody both traits simultaneously. Practicing behaviors that show care for others and demonstrating competence can enhance one's image effectively without compromising authenticity. Creating opportunities for meaningful interactions and showcasing skills can build a reputation as a likable badass.
The Role of Other Promoters
Other promoters are individuals who advocate for you in your absence, significantly contributing to your status by endorsing your work and character. Building relationships with these promoters can amplify your presence and open doors to new opportunities. Engaging in reciprocal promotion—where you uplift others in return for their support—creates a beneficial dynamic that enhances everyone's reputation. This strategy emphasizes the need for genuine interactions, as well as asking for help or introductions when needed to maximize opportunities.
Practical Strategies for Building Status
Practicality is essential in working toward being a likable badass, and focusing on small, actionable steps can lead to substantial results. These strategies include utilizing dead time to reach out to contacts, actively seeking connections, and being intentional about promoting others as well as oneself. Developing a consistent practice of proactive engagement and relationship-building fosters a supportive network over time. Ultimately, maintaining a long-term perspective on these efforts can mitigate the impact of short-term failures in social interactions.
How do you balance kindness and competence in the workplace? How can you get the success you deserve, earn credit for your accomplishments, and navigate complex office politics without antagonising your colleagues?
Over decades of research, behavioural scientist Alison Fragale encountered these recurring questions from high-powered and early-career women alike, determining that many women’s workplace issues boil down to the perception of others. Now she joins us to share her insights, offering actionable strategies that can help women elevate their esteem, all while remaining authentic to themselves.