In the spring of 2015, in Florence's Piazza, a serendipitous encounter with Mimosa flowers marked the beginning of our awareness of International Women's Day. It was a family holiday, and on the morning of March 8th, as we ventured in search of our morning coffee, an Italian gentleman unexpectedly handed my daughter and me these vibrant yellow blossoms. He requested no payment and continued on his way. As we sipped our coffee, the owner of the coffee shop handed us more Mimosa flowers. We then noticed the streets were adorned with bundles of these blooms, being passed out to women, and when we asked why, we found out it was an annual tradition in Italy, on Women's Day! Every year, as International Women's Day approaches, my thoughts drift back to those yellow flowers, tokens of genuine respect that transcended language barriers.
Releasing this March blog on International Women's Day is a chance to shout out loud about how incredibly proud I am of the women at HOST Management. These ladies aren't just coworkers; they're the kind of team that challenges each other every single day, in a way that makes us all better. It goes beyond their job descriptions. I am in awe of their unique perspectives and the deliberate efforts they put into leveling up – not just personally, but for our company. The vibe they've created here is seriously motivating. On International Women's Day, I want to give a big shout-out to these fantastic women who embody strength, empowerment, and a whole lot of awesome.
The Challenge of the 'Old Boys Club'
Navigating the business landscape as a woman comes with its challenges. Each of us has encountered skeptical counterparts who, even if unspoken, haven't concealed their doubts about our capabilities. In a room of business professionals, women often find themselves in the minority, and initiating connections may not come as effortlessly. Yet, despite these challenges, we forge ahead, showing that what we bring to the table goes beyond stereotypes.
As an entrepreneur and a business leader, I've navigated the challenges of the 'old boys club,' a subtle yet pervasive force in our corporate society. Unconscious bias remains a challenging obstacle, as illustrated by a recent encounter where a prominent business figure consistently fails to remember my name. A persistent struggle exists for women in business to be recognized and respected on equal footing. While there are bright moments that stand out, they are not as common as they should be, underscoring the need for a more inclusive and supportive environment for female entrepreneurs.
Celebrating the Boss Ladies
At HOST Management, we proudly celebrate the remarkable women who comprise our team. We've embarked on a journey to redefine leadership roles and challenge preconceived notions. A recent epiphany saw our team playfully referring to each other as "Boss Ladies". While met with laughter, it revealed a deeper truth – every woman in our firm deserves the title, yet societal norms and internalized doubts hold them back.
I love watching every woman in our company excel in their leadership abilities. They do this intentionally by setting goals, reading leadership books, and developing their strategic skills. I am extremely proud of the work they are doing and grateful for how it's impacting our company. It's important for them to realize they are not just working for a woman-led business, they ARE women in business!
As we celebrate International Women's Day, I challenge fellow local entrepreneurs and CEOs to truly see the women in their professional spheres. Do we know what the females in the room contribute to the business landscape?
International Women's Day serves as a reminder to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women in business. It’s also important to keep the conversations ongoing about gender equality, diversity, women in leadership, and how to empower young girls. At HOST Management, we are proud to lead the way as an all-female firm, challenging stereotypes, and fostering an environment where every woman is acknowledged as a Boss Lady. Let this day be a catalyst for change, inspiring a more inclusive and empowering future for women in business.
