“Own It: The Power of Women at Work,” published in 2017, is authored by Sallie Krawcheck, a prominent figure in finance, particularly known for her leadership roles in major Wall Street firms. This book leverages her extensive experience to explore how women can achieve greater success in corporate environments. It is structured around key themes that empower women to take control of their careers and make their unique contributions felt.

Krawcheck starts by setting the stage, highlighting the untapped potential of women in the workplace. She points out that women’s natural skills–such as risk aversion, relational skills, and long-term thinking–are becoming increasingly valuable in the modern, rapidly evolving work environment.

Actionable Advice:
– Capitalize on unique strengths: Encourage women to identify and integrate their natural skills into their work strategies.

Throughout the book, Krawcheck emphasizes the importance of authenticity. She argues that women should bring their true selves to work and not feel pressured to mimic traditionally male behaviors to succeed.

Example: Krawcheck shares her personal experiences where trying to fit into a typically male-dominated finance world felt inauthentic and unsustainable.

Actionable Advice:
– Embrace authentic leadership: Women should practice self-reflection to identify their core values and ensure their work aligns with them.

Women often miss out on the professional networking that men naturally engage in, Krawcheck points out. She suggests building networks that are based not just on professional needs but also on genuine relationships.

Example: She recounts how building authentic connections led to career advancements and opened new opportunities that were not visible within traditional male networks.

Actionable Advice:
– Expand and deepen your network: Make a conscious effort to both widen and deepen your professional network through genuine relationship-building activities.

Krawcheck stresses the importance of financial literacy and independence for women, highlighting how financial stability can provide a strong foundation for career risk-taking and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Example: She cites various studies showing that women, on average, are less likely to invest than men, leading to missed opportunities for wealth creation.

Actionable Advice:
– Invest in financial education: Commit time each week to learn about personal finance, investment options, and retirement planning.

The book advocates for flexible working arrangements, arguing that they can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction, especially for women who often juggle multiple roles.

Example: Krawcheck notes companies that have adopted flexible work policies see reduced turnover and higher employee engagement.

Actionable Advice:
– Negotiate for flexibility: Propose a trial period for flexible working hours to demonstrate its effectiveness to management.

Krawcheck makes a compelling case for diversity, showing how diverse teams are more innovative and better at problem-solving. She encourages women to support each other and promote diversity in their workplaces.

Example: She mentions the success of organizations that have implemented diversity initiatives and have seen improved business performance.

Actionable Advice:
– Support diversity initiatives: Participate in or initiate diversity programs and mentorship opportunities within your organization.

Many women experience impostor syndrome, doubting their accomplishments and fearing they will be exposed as a “fraud.” Krawcheck provides strategies to combat these feelings and build self-confidence.

Example: She shares anecdotes from her own career and from other successful women who’ve faced similar doubts.

Actionable Advice:
– Regular self-affirmation: Maintain a journal of achievements and review it regularly to remind yourself of your capabilities and successes.

Taking calculated risks is essential for career growth, Krawcheck writes. Women should not shy away from roles or projects that stretch their capabilities.

Example: She discusses her decision to take on challenging roles that, although risky, provided significant career advancement opportunities.

Actionable Advice:
– Identify and take strategic risks: Assess potential opportunities to determine where taking a risk could have the highest payoff and pursue them.

Krawcheck emphasizes the value of emotional intelligence in leadership, noting that traits like empathy and self-awareness are critical for effective leadership and team management.

Example: She refers to studies showing that leaders with high emotional intelligence create more cohesive and productive teams.

Actionable Advice:
– Develop emotional intelligence: Engage in activities like mindfulness training and active listening exercises to enhance emotional intelligence.

Lastly, Krawcheck discusses the importance of advocacy for gender equality in the workplace. She urges women to not only strive for their own progress but also support systemic changes that can benefit all women.

Example: She highlights organizations that have made strides in gender parity and attributes their success to strong advocacy and policy changes.

Actionable Advice:
– Become an advocate: Join or form advocacy groups within your industry to push for gender equality and workplace reforms.

Krawcheck concludes by encouraging women to “own it” – to own their career paths, their financial futures, and their roles as leaders and advocates. She reinforces the idea that the future is bright for women who harness their unique strengths and support each other.

Actionable Advice:
– Take proactive steps: Regularly set career goals, seek out mentoring relationships, and continue personal and professional development.

“Own It: The Power of Women at Work” is more than a call to action; it is a detailed roadmap that empowers women to harness their unique strengths, build meaningful professional relationships, advocate for change, and achieve their fullest potential in the workplace.