Best Buy's Women's Leadership Forum (WOLF) celebrates all of the women in history who have changed the world and have made life better for women today. From science and technology to politics and business, we honor these women and acknowledge their great contributions. We hope to continue their great work of creating a better world for women and girls.
In honor of Women’s History Month, Liz Haesler writes about the women in both history, and in her own life who she most admires and why.
Which historic woman do you most relate to and why? Or, which historic woman do you think was most influential and why?
LH: I admire Susan B. Anthony. She was a reformer and the leader of a women’s movement over 105 years ago! As a 17-year-old teacher, which in itself must have been a challenge, she fought for equal pay --something we’re still working on today! She also fought for co-education and the right for women to attend college. I cannot imagine the perseverance and courage it must have taken to do this over 100 years ago.
Who is the woman in your life that has been most influential to you personally or professionally?
LH: My grandmother and mother were both the most inspirational women in my life. They supported my decision to pursue my dreams professionally and to raise a family. They were there every step of the way for me, during the good times and bad. I would not be where I am today without them.
Have you ever had a female mentor? What was the most important thing you learned from her?
LH: Linda Ahlers, CEO of Marshall Fields, was my boss and mentor for several years. She taught me about the challenges I would face climbing the ladder in corporate America. She was the toughest boss I ever had, but I learned more from her than any other. She had to fight hard, every day, to stay in the proverbial rink. She was very focused on performance, not gender. I watched her give up a significant part of her life, for her success – and that will always stay with me.
Which modern-day woman do you most admire and why?
LH: I admire Andrea Jung, CEO of Avon, for the constant evolution of her leadership style throughout her career, based on the times and the state of her business. So many leaders, male and female, get to a position, and then stop learning, or are so set in their ways and think since they ‘made it’ they are invincible and do not need to change. Andrea is focused on making sure she is a BETTER leader during the transformational times. She hasn’t changed who she is – but has evolved her leadership style. During the recession she has led Avon to be bold, versus pull back. She is truly one of those leaders who truly walks the talk.
What is the number one issue you think we, as female leaders in corporate America, need to tackle for all working women?
LH: Women Helping Women. Period. We must break through the glass ceiling – in pay, board representation, and CEO representation. We can’t just wait for men to pave the way for us– we will only get there if we make the time to help each other.
.
on:
The Helper: (over)Step
