Female Managers: Do You Take the Lead?

In my conversations with several high-level female managers, they’ve mentioned to me that women, when given the option for a new opportunity, will hesitate if they feel they don’t have all of the skills, while men will jump right in.

But it’s time to start taking smart risks and say “yes” to a new opportunity, even if you don’t have all of the expertise. If you need to develop skills on your new assignment, you will, or you can delegate tasks to someone who can do them.

If you’re faced with an opportunity and are unsure, keep a few things in mind. Shift your thinking and say “yes” instead of “no,” or “not yet.” Take a positive outlook, you’ll be able to do it.

The uneasiness you feel by this shift in thinking is normal, and means you’re willing to grow.

Get support from someone above you who has already advanced. Pick the best people in the company who will go to bat for you and can advise you.

About the author:

Helene Lerner is the Founder of http://www.womenworking.com, one of the premier websites for professional women. Join Helene and Women Working at the 2011 Women in Leadership Institute this November 13-16 in Chicago.