Combat biases with approachability

- As a female leader, you've got a lot of biases to work against. For me, I'm considered a minority in a minority, and that comes with inherent biases, and everyone, no matter what group you identify with, there will be biases, and stereotypes that you have to work against. As a leader, one of the common biases is that leaders are elitist, and hard to access. As a woman, one of the common biases is being overly emotional, or hysterical. So, as a female leader, it is important to combat those stereotypes by being approachable. Here are some ways that you can become more approachable. First, managing your emotional intelligence is a great way for you to engage and relate to others. Emotional intelligence gives you the capacity to focus on your personal behavior, more than on others' behavior, so you can lead with confidence, even in challenging times. Maintaining a welcoming heart gives you, and your team, the confidence needed to be approachable, no matter the situation. Next, managing your social intelligence is a great way to be, or remain, approachable. Why? Social intelligence develops at the same time as your experiences, the more you interact with your team, the more approachability will grow. So, it's very important you interact with your team and in return, they will trust you more. Finally, the more adaptable you are, the more your team will trust you. Adaptability shows your team you are willing to adjust to their needs, which over time, lets your team know, we are in this together. And isn't that what bein' a confident woman and leader is all about? Starting now, I want you to be authentic and welcoming to your team and your organization overall. Doing this will open the door for people to get to know you, which over time, creates the trust needed for you to be approachable.