Women have contributed much to our society, and yet, for far too long they were kept in the shadows and have fought tirelessly to be recognized and treated as equal. While there is still work to be done when talking about women's rights, it is important to take a moment and celebrate women for all their accomplishments. Founded in 1910 by Clara Zetkin, International Women’s Day (IWD) grew from the labor movement seeking gender equality to becoming an annual event recognized by the United Nations. Every year on IWD there are different themes to bring awareness to the many challenges women face. This year's IWD theme is #breakthebias. Despite many advancements, there are still negative biases towards women, making it challenging for them to move forward in the workplace and society. Today, we can become aware of these biases and the efforts needed to stop them day by day.
We caught up with our Publisher and CEO, Linda Behmoiras, to discuss what it means to be a leading woman today.
What are some challenges you face and have faced as a woman running your own company?
While I have been very blessed running my company for the past 18 years, I have encountered a few men along the way that are a bit chauvinistic and do not want to buy advertising space from a woman, or honestly, deal with a woman in business and take her seriously.
How did you overcome those challenges?
A few months ago, I had a business meeting with a gentleman who was being difficult and condescending. I stood my ground and showed him my Publisher's letter and told him I was the founder and creator of my company. I explained that this was my livelihood and that I put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into my business and that I would not tolerate his disrespect. You can't be a pushover. You have to be a strong woman and stand true to what you believe in.
What advice would you give the next generation of female leaders?
I advise young female leaders to hold true to their principles and work hard. It's important not to get discouraged or take “no” for an answer. Push even when you feel you can't and don't give up on your dreams and build the strength you need to achieve them. Also, I think it's important to be part of women's networking groups and women's charities. You will meet ladies there that will support and guide you in many ways.
Who are some women that have inspired you during your career?
Oprah Winfrey is an amazing role model in media. I am inspired in many ways by women like Jamie Kern Lima, Sara Blakely, Bethenny Frankel and Maya Angelou.
How should women support other women in business?
I try to support women-owned businesses as much as I can. It's important to support each other. Also, be there to help and listen to other female business owners. Sometimes we just need a sounding board to talk to.
Do you have a quote that helps you keep moving forward?
I have so many quotes that I love that I keep on my phone and look at often. Some of my recent favorites are:
"I've learned that people will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou
"They laugh at your 'little business' until you 'little business' makes more in a month than they make in a year. Keep pushing."
"Someone is out there holding their breath waiting for you to fail. Make sure they suffocate."
"Your purpose is not to spend your entire life wandering around looking for your purpose. Your purpose is to walk in your magic and move in your power. Your purpose is to be fully alive. That's it. The rest will come naturally. Stop searching and just live." - Brooke Hampton
How do you think we can stop gender bias?
By continuing to be Wonder Women and being the best that we can be. The better and stronger we are, the tougher it will be for others to be biased. Workplace equality is particularly important.
On this important day, do not stop fighting against the biases. As a society, it is critical to treat everyone equally and acknowledge the challenges we face and while forward together. Happy International Women’s Day!
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