Women in today’s workforce face a complicated dynamic every day, author Alison Fragale told a group at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Council event on August 6.
Fragale detailed the delicate balance that calls for women to be simultaneously assertive and warm in an engaging conversation with Second City’s Kelly Leonard.
“Women didn’t cause this problem, and we don’t deserve it, but — fortunately — the most effective solutions are within our own control,” said Fragale, who lives in Chicago but teaches at the University of North Carolina. “One of the best ways to show up as both capable and caring is to use your unique skills to help others.”
The discussion was one of the first held by the Chamber’s new Women’s Business Council and centered on Fragale’s latest publication, “Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve.” The conversation was recorded for Leonard’s podcast, “Getting to Yes And.” Leonard is Vice President, Creative Strategy, Innovation and Business Development at Second City Chicago.
Fragale also highlighted the importance of lifting other women up, noting that when you tell people’s stories positively, they are more likely to reciprocate.
“If I say good things about you, you’re more likely to say good things about me. And when you talk me up, that builds my reputation with others. Yes, self-promotion is important, but getting others to promote us is even more valuable,” she said. “Is it harder to show up as competent and warm as a woman? Unfortunately, yes. Is it doable — absolutely. The proof is all around us. We all know many women who are perceived as both capable and caring. If they can do it, we can do it.”
Following the interview, attendees enjoyed a networking reception at Utopian Tailgate, complete with complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
