Leadership and Executive Development for women of all races, cultures and backgrounds
Issue link: https://diversitywoman.epubxp.com/i/510478
d i v e r s i t y w o m a n . c o m S u m m e r 2 0 1 5 D I V E R S I T Y W O M A N 7 W hen Katrina Adams, the subject of our cover feature, was a little girl growing up in Chicago, she longingly watched her older brothers play tennis in a local program. At six, she was too young to play. But eventually she couldn't contain herself and started The Power of Confdence badgering the coaches to let her play. Finally, they did, and she promptly began beating boys and girls twice her size and eventually went on to a distinguished professional tennis career. If little Katrina hadn't spoken up and asked the coaches over and over if she could play, she may not have had that successful career in tennis. Nor would she likely be serving today as the CEO of the United States Tennis Association. Adams got what she wanted, and what she deserved, based on her skill level but also by doing something that, unfor- tunately, women in Corporate America are often accused of not doing—making herself heard. From childhood, girls are socialized to defer, apologize, and focus on making other people happy frst. But in the cutthroat executive world, those instincts often leave us underappreciated, underpromoted, and underpaid. I believe that the key comes down to confdence. Over the years, I have met women who have achieved tremen- dously—because they believe in themselves and they project that confdence. In this issue's Accelerate department (page 17), we explore this phenomenon and ofer tips on how women can become more assertive in the workplace. As this article demonstrates, it is possible to be kind, supportive, and even feminine, and still assert one's will, expertise, and know-how. In short, leadership means being confdent and respected—without abandoning your true self. We wish you a wonderful summer, and we look forward to seeing you at the 10th anniversary Diversity Women's Business Leadership Conference in Orlando in October! Sheila Robinson Publisher, Diversity Woman Publisher's Page > Leadership means being confdent and respected—without abandoning your true self.