Image by: Danielle Campbell

“Knowledge is power! The more you are prepared and know your industry, the more confident you will be in any discussion. Never be afraid to ask questions or clarify something you are unsure of – it shows more confidence to say you need more information than it does to sit quietly and not understand what’s happening. You can also grow confidence at the office by keeping a mental (or actual) list of your successes to focus on when you are feeling doubtful. Knowing your strengths and capitalizing on them is key to success.”

“There are four key points for me. First, don’t be afraid. Fear – of failure, of embarrassment, of criticism – often holds us back. Many women experience scrutiny and judgment much more than their male counterparts (and science proves this right), so try to turn this into an advantage – it actually means that most of the time you are more qualified, more well-read and more experienced than the men in the room. Secondly, stop being your own worst judge. It turns out that clichés like ‘done is better than perfect’ are true. So give yourself a break (at least once in a while)! Third, build your female professional network at the office and outside. There’s nothing more empowering and inspiring than women helping other women. We are stronger together. And last but not least, if you get a compliment, fight back the urge to say ‘oh that, that was nothing.’ Saying “Thank you” is enough.”

“Find your confidence by being great at your job – be that by doing that extra bit of preparation for a big meeting, or spending those needed hours on a piece of work that your boss is looking to you to excel in. If you’re proud of what you’ve achieved, so will your boss be.”

“Being engaged in this subject is the first step. It is important to have information and support one another. Sisterhood is something I think many women are still not into, but it is extremely necessary to win this battle.”

“It often hides in subtle comments or office politics, but we must all constantly speak up against sexism and discrimination. I find asking questions after a sexist comment can be helpful. For example, ‘I don’t understand why that is funny…’ after a racist or sexist joke forces the person who spoke to explain the humour and it can become obvious how inappropriate their comment was without you having to make an accusation. Or, simply asking, ‘Would you have said that if I were a man?’ ‘Do you make comments on your male colleagues’ clothing?’ If things are getting more serious, keep a written document detailing the situation and go to your human resources department.”

“Depending on the severity of the action, use your wit and sense of humour or raise your hand and protest. Report to human resources if it goes against company policy or damages the image of the company. Go ahead and press charges against the offender to the local authorities if it is very serious and goes against the laws in your country.”

“SPEAK UP. Never ever accept any comments or deeds that are misogynist, racist or sexist, whether you are a woman or a man. We need to have difficult conversations, we need to challenge each other and remind one another of the progress that still needs to be made. One step forward does not mean equal rights for all forever. Democracy, human rights, race and gender equality demand our dedication, hard work and vigilance.”

“When it comes to discrimination, we have to fight it both politically and in the workplace. Having mentors or female role models is great for building networks and developing self-esteem on a personal level. With the words of Madeleine Albright: “There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t help each other.”