International Women’s Day 2021 #ChooseToChallenge: Damia van Laarhoven

Disclaimer: Please note that all commentary and opinions provided in this interview are those of the individual and not the organisation/company they are employed by. 

What skills and attributes do female leaders bring to create diverse leadership at management level?  

I believe women have better listening skills and are more emphatic. Furthermore, women don’t feel the need to prove themselves. They know how to reach a goal without having a ‘pissing contest.’

How can female leaders ensure they get a seat at the table? 

Never give up. Even if you have the right skills and experience it will happen that you don’t get the seat at the table you want. Keep going on and in the end you will get the right seat which is the right fit. Be more confident and don’t be afraid to take risks.

What impact could Kamala Harris’ appointment to Vice President have on the next generation of female leaders? 

I believe she is a great example for all future female leaders and especially for women of colour. If you have the right skills and attitude, then being a woman doesn’t have to stand in the way.

What is one thing women don’t talk about enough? 

Their achievements ambitions and the problems they had to overcome.

What are you really, really good at? 

Helicopter view, getting straight to the point and finding creative solutions. Connecting with people through every level of the business and understanding their needs.

Why is it important that we “choose to challenge” and call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping? 

It is (and always will be) important that everybody gets an equal opportunity and is made aware thereof. It doesn’t matter and shouldn’t matter if you’re female, male, LGTBQ, black, brown, white, purple, yellow, or where you’re from. It should be about being the right person for the job and creating opportunities for each and everyone.

Click below to read the full edition of IWD2021 #ChooseToChallenge: Female Leaders Across The Globe.https://indd.adobe.com/embed/bb2678fd-fafb-4e5f-b57b-bbe97612e7cf?startpage=1&allowFullscreen=true