Working in a still mostly male-dominated industry can be a challenge for a woman who wants to contribute their skills in leadership today. I say that with a full understanding that our industry has come a long way in the past decade in becoming more inclusive, something we should be proud of. However, there can still be some resistance to change so I’d like to offer my humble advice to anyone out there facing these challenges.
First and most importantly: be your authentic self. Authenticity is a characteristic that is well respected, regardless of your sex, race or creed. We are surrounded with such talented leaders in our industry, and they can all smell inauthenticity from a mile away. While being authentic, it is also important to be self-award. Read the room. Stay positive in your discussions and you can never go wrong.
Second, be confident in the skills and leadership values you bring to the table. I believe in servant leadership. When you put your team first, you will always succeed. Ghandhi said it best: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” When your team knows you have their back and you actively listen to their ideas and needs, they will want to do their best for you and your company. It’s easy to fall into a rut of self-service, especially during volatile or hard times. Focusing on how you can help your team accomplish the task at hand, asking “how can I help you” as often as possible, and being there to support their growth and development is the best way to see it through. There is no greater feeling then seeing your team members being recognized for their contributions and moving up the ladder knowing you were able to help them reach their goals. Being a strong leader earns you the respect of others — both men and women — and word gets around.
Networking is an invaluable skill and tool in helping you continue to grow and develop. Keeping the first two pieces in mind, when you are networking with people that might look different or hold a higher title than you, remember we are all human beings just trying to make the best of the one life we get to live and give meaningful contributions to our companies and the industry we love so much. Successful people will always seek out others that have the same values and energy to match their own. Find at least two people in a room that you respect and want to learn more from and go introduce yourself. Don’t let how they look or the position they hold keep you against the wall, being a flower. Be confident in knowing your worth and that we are all the same on the inside. Shine the light of your talent so bright that no one can notice whether you are a woman or a man — they will just want to know you!
Get excited! Energy is infectious. If you are having a good time, people will flock to you. You can create you own networking environment just by having good energy to share. Keeping a positive mindset is key to maintaining a positive and engaging energy. No matter the situation, there are always options. Keep an open mind, consult your team, and go with your gut. Change is good. Change brings new opportunities for growth and development. Don’t be afraid of change; lean into it. Most challenges are easier to overcome when you face them head on. Networking isn’t always about quantity. I would argue that quality is the most important aspect of growing your base. Having a well-rounded rolodex (or one of those new fancy AI apps) of respected industry leaders to bounce ideas off and consult difficult situations with is a huge advantage.
In summary, I would say the best way to navigate your growth and development in a challenging environment is to focus on what you do best. Not because you are a guy or a girl, but because you are a capable member of our industry. Strive for improvement of the greater good and it will be recognized amongst all genders. Get involved.
There are so many opportunities the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) offers to network with our fellow industry leaders. Pick one and dive in; become a member. Women in Propane (WIP) hosts a networking reception after every round table event at the Southeastern Expo. All are welcome and we love to see new faces every year.
If you aren’t able to attend the Expo, then please consider being an Ambassador for WIP at the NPGA state meetings. NPGA also supports the Young Professionals Council, the Benchmarking Council as well as a Cylinder Exchange Council. If joining a council isn’t something you feel quite ready for, there are many committees worth looking into as well. Take advantage of every networking event you can get to — if there aren’t any, make one! The more involved you get, the more people you are exposed to meeting and the more opportunities you have to show your value and grow.
