Women for Women

What can we accomplish in the world as women? I truly believe that if we reach out deliberately to each other as women – instead of directly or indirectly competing against each other – link our talents and passions, genuinely and authentically support each other, and carve out spaces to get each other in the big discussions in equal numbers to men, we’ll have the ability to make change happen.

Growing up with two brothers and parents who encouraged me to get my education and then pursue whatever I put my heart, mind and a lot of work ethic behind, I’ve felt supported from the beginning. I believe that much of my success – my undergraduate degree, my master’s degree, my CPA and my entrepreneurial spirit – can be attributed to a core belief that my dreams matter. The key in all this was at least one person at the right level made me feel supported to pursue my goals – giving me the validation that I, as a woman, did bring a powerful and unique voice to the table of business. And, I mattered!

But what about those who haven’t felt supported or who just don’t realize their abilities to single-handedly make change happen? Those who haven’t been encouraged to pursue their dreams?

During a visit to one of our Best Buy stores a few years ago, a retail employee greeted me with a hug instead of a handshake. When I asked why, she replied, “It’s so good to see a woman executive. I feel like women don’t fit into the corporate world.” This inspired me to change the opportunities for women – inside and outside of Best Buy.

It was then that I decided the rest of my career would be dedicated to inspiring individuals to believe in themselves and become something they never dreamed possible. I created a movement called WOLF.

WOLF (Women’s Leadership Forum) is in full swing at Best Buy. By the end of this year, it’s expected to impact more than 20,000 Best Buy employees (women and men). Through the three pillars on which WOLF is founded (commitment, networking and giving back to communities), WOLF helps Best Buy’s female employees navigate the corporate retail landscape and become stronger leaders. WOLF tackles tough business issues like retention, recruiting and building new business opportunities to serve women customers and employees globally. Those involved in WOLF brainstorm new business strategies, research and propose ideas, and link their networks for new products, services and businesses appealing to women. And the amazing thing is… all these benefit not only women, but also men and children as well.

WOLF is extending beyond Best Buy to help unleash the leadership potential of women throughout the world. There’s no better time than today for a focus on women’s leadership. Women now dominate economic spending in most industries, including those previously dominated by men’s spending (medical, automotive, consumer electronics, consumer products and even beer!). In spite of this, women hold only 14 of the Top 500 CEO positions and are far from representing 50 percent of the voice in business and politics.

We must start incorporating the female lens in the decision-making process for all facets of business, in politics and in solving the challenges that face communities, nations and continents. Women approach situations differently, have different physiological and psychological composition, and now have the pocketbooks and purchasing influence to rival those historically held by men. Women are just different, providing unique perspectives in all areas and discussions. And the companies and countries that harness this powerful asset will win.

So my challenge is this: If women reach out to girls and women of all ages and move forward together, we have the ability to make amazing things happen in each other’s lives and to change the economic dynamics for women and girls around the world.

I do believe this is possible. And I know that my fellow PINK readers must feel the same way!

By Julie Gilbert