Finding Your Authentic Leadership Voice
“When times are hard, it is how you respond to those hard times and how you come out in the end.”
OLYMPIC VALLEY, CA—At the GlobeSt. Women of Influence conference, numerous women recognize the significance of developing an authentic leadership voice as an ongoing personal development journey. Balancing compassion, assertiveness, and sincerity can often feel like navigating a precarious tightrope. During a leadership panel on Wednesday morning, panelists emphasized that discovering this genuine voice can profoundly impact the management of high-performing teams and drive positive change within the CRE Industry.
Deena Zimmerman, vice president of SVN Chicago, stressed the importance of aspiring to leadership roles and being unafraid to ask for what one desires. She acknowledged the challenges women may face in their climb to success, noting the need for heightened preparation and perseverance. Zimmerman embraced the notion that there’s nothing wrong with being the most knowledgeable person in the room and advocating for one’s expertise.
Courtney Ettus, chief marketing officer of Crexi, added that it’s acceptable to acknowledge one’s imperfections and vulnerabilities while striving to be the best version of oneself. Emphasizing the power of asking questions, she believed that curiosity benefits everyone and fosters growth.
Ettus encouraged attendees to recognize their worth and believe they deserve their current positions. She motivated them to pursue their goals with determination and tenacity, assuring them that taking the first step towards their aspirations is already a victory. “When times are hard, it is how you respond to those hard times and how you come out in the end.”
Zimmerman reinforced the idea that believing in oneself is only part of the equation; it’s equally crucial to believe in the potential of those around you. Supporting and empowering others can lead to collective success and growth.
Marissa Limsiaco, Co-Founder of Otso, shared her own experience of overcoming intimidation during her time at West Point. She emphasized the value of asking questions, even if it means feeling vulnerable, as it leads to deeper understanding and learning. Limsiaco highlighted that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest or most powerful, but rather the one who seeks knowledge through inquiry.
Check back with GlobeSt.com for more from the Women of Influence conference and check out the stories below for what you might have missed.
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