Ambassador Highlight: Top 5 Reasons to Attend the WLC
Ever have one of those moments that just impacts your life in a way that you never expected? That is what happened to me last year at the Women's Leadership Conference. I was unable to go to the full-day conference, so I attended the Backstage Event and Networking the evening before. During a small group round table discussion, I mentioned that I was nervous about an upcoming presentation and allowed myself to be pretty vulnerable with a group of women I didn't even know.
I shared how a series of career setbacks had made me question my abilities, and I became more cautious, guarded and insecure. A career coach and consultant who was attending the conference immediately offered to help me and asked me to contact her the following week. So I did, and she spent an hour with me, providing a complimentary coaching session. She gave me easy-to-remember, practical tips to not only improve my message, but to build my confidence. This was all out of the goodness of her heart, expecting nothing in return. Thank you Taura Prosek of Stewart Leadership! You are an awesome advocate of women!
That experience inspired me to take the next step and join the New Sage Women’s Network led by Women’s Leadership Conference founder Vicki Updike. Taking time to focus on my personal development has made a huge difference in my growth as a person and a leader.
To those who have been wondering if it is worth it for you or your employees to register for the upcoming conference on Oct. 2 in Green Bay, here are my top five reasons for saying YES!
1. Fostering Confidence
A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that nearly 80% of women struggle with lack of confidence and avoid self-advocacy at work. Even with the strides we've made in recognizing the value of gender diversity, women often feel like they are held to a different standard. We must be competent and organized, but not too assertive. From an early age, we've been taught to be quiet and obedient, rather than take risks. This conference will help you dig in deep and find that inner spark that is just waiting to shine.
2. Advocating for Women in the Workplace
Attending the conference, or providing this opportunity for your employees, is just one way to demonstrate how much women are valued and needed in the workplace as leaders and future leaders. This ultimately enhances company culture and provides a safe place for women to spread their wings.
3. Networking and Mentorship Opportunities
Creating a community of supportive and strong women leaders is one of the best ways to educate, encourage and inspire women to take their careers to the next level. Providing an environment of support not only builds confidence, it helps reduce burnout, encourage innovation, improve job satisfaction and improve problem solving. This year, the Women's Conference is taking it one step further by offering a separate one-day conference for high school girls, ages 14-18 on Oct. 3. Research continues to show the importance of instilling self-esteem, belonging and empowerment in young girls, to start building the foundation for our future leaders.
4. Professional Development
The conference features panel discussions, keynote presentations and breakout sessions from experienced leaders with content focused on leadership development, career advancement and wellbeing. Attendees will walk away with specific techniques to address real-world challenges and barriers that face women in all stages of their lives and careers. Learning from each other is one of the best ways to take the next step to a fulfilling and successful career.
5. Helping women become their best selves
As women, sometimes we can be our own worst critic. We just need that little nudge, that friendly smile, that encouraging voice that shows us that we CAN do hard things, and we CAN achieve big dreams, and we CAN reach for the stars. Sometimes we gain so much perspective by hearing the stories of other women leaders, while recognizing common themes in our own lives and careers.
If these aren't reasons enough, just know that you will also walk away with some new friends, a re-energized spirit, and a burst of motivation to live your best life. So will you join me? Register today: womensleadershipwi.com
Renee Torzala
VP of Marketing and Investor Relations at the New North
2024 WLC Ambassador