Linkage CEO Jennifer McCollum Appears on the RK3 Show Podcast

How can we effectively lead–even when it’s difficult? Jennifer McCollum, CEO of Linkage, was a recent guest on Robert Kennedy III ‘s podcast, The RK3 Show. During her appearance, she discussed the importance of communication and storytelling, as well as our work to advance women leaders, purposeful leaders, and cultures of inclusion. 

Jennifer also addressed the unique challenges women in leadership roles face, including the lack of fellow female role models in senior leadership positions.  She mentioned that within Fortune 500 companies, only 24 of those CEOs are females.

So, how can we help women who are aspiring to leadership positions?  Jennifer noted the importance of spending time with them, mentoring them, and getting to know them.  Women face unique hurdles that can impede their own advancement, which is why women need to work to elevate each other.

We know that the most successful organizations support gender parity, but they are also inclusive.  So, how do we create cultures of inclusion?  It’s more important than even for companies to create an environment where everyone, no matter where they are in the organization, feels that they have a voice and can speak up.   There needs to be executive commitment and support, and equity in talent systems that recognize when employees are ready for promotions.   From there, it’s vital to inspire your peers with the vision and goals of the company, and make sure each of them owns a piece of it so that they feel fully engaged.

To hear more insights from Jennifer, including which leaders inspire her, check out The RK3 Show.