What Does It Take to be Great?

Great women leaders are everywhere – from your own mother to the manager in the next office. They inspire us to be better leaders and demand change for ourselves and other women as well.

Liz Haesler, VP of Home Life & Trend and co-leader of women’s leadership forum WOLF at Best Buy, agrees. She found an inspiring leader when she saw a strong, successful female become CEO of a Fortune 500 company. She remembers the CEO saying, “I didn’t get the job because I am a woman; I got the job because I was the best person for the job.”

“When she first said this, my initial thoughts were, her approach was harsh,” says Haesler. “I later came to realize the importance of what she did, and the message she needed to send at that time. Today, in my work, what is most important is making sure we have the tools and support to be successful.” 

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Women like Haesler consider honesty a key trait of great leaders. Experts say individuals who are genuine and of sound character can instill trust in others.

Leaders of a team are only as strong as the weakest link. Experts say nurturing others’ leadership skills instead of luring more followers will help develop a team of effective leaders who can put the future of your business in an enviable position.

Great women leaders support other women on the way up, Haesler adds. “My belief is, as female leaders, we have to help each other in order to break through the glass ceilings.”

Bonus PINK Link: Find out how leaders who function as coaches can help take employees to the next level.

By Muriel Vega

“Leaders are more powerful role models when they learn
than when they teach.” Rosabeth Moss Kantor