Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden on Empowering Women in Leadership: Building Confidence, Role Models, and Career Goals

Dec 4

In recognition of National Women Support Women's Day, George Washington University's Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and CommPRO are showcasing the voices and wisdom of trailblazing women who have left an indelible mark on the business landscape. Insights from female business thought leaders contribute a unique perspective on the current state of women's leadership in the business world and in the workforce.

In the following series, we present the thoughtful responses of these influential women, offering a glimpse into their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of women in leadership. As we delve into their insights, we aim to uncover actionable strategies and illuminate the path forward for businesses striving to cultivate an inclusive and empowering environment for women. You can download the full report, “Nurturing Women's Leadership: Insights From Distinguished Thought Leaders,” here.

"Women need to assert themselves with confidence in the workplace. Speaking up, raising your hand, and being proactive are musts to advance your career." - Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden

Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden is the CEO of Ruder Finn Inc., one of the world's largest independent public relations and creative agencies, with offices across the United States, EU, and the Asia Pacific region.

I am very proud to be a female leader. At RF I am not the only woman in a leadership position. Our Global COO is a woman, and at least half of our management committee are women. We must recognize that it’s not just putting women in leadership roles that’s important, it’s also important to support them throughout their careers. There are three things that I think are super important for helping women move up into leadership roles:

Building Confidence: I’ve heard from many of the CEOs that I’ve worked with over the years that women are less forward about asking for promotions and raises, even when they have years of experience and a defined skill set. Women need to assert themselves with confidence in the workplace. Speaking up, raising your hand, and being proactive, are all musts to advance your career.

Role Models: It’s critical to provide visibility to women who are role models both inside and outside your company and identify women who can become future leaders and to provide them with training opportunities and promotions. Building strong women leaders within your business will help to retain younger generations. If you are a role model, it’s important to share your knowledge, and interact with people at all levels. Never ask someone to take on a task you would not do yourself.

Career Goals: To be successful, young people and potential leaders need to set their own career goals, as well as always be looking to what’s next. Most of the time, your competition is market transitions rather than direct business competitors, and it’s important to become familiar with what these transitions are. Consider what tools you might need to adopt and what skills you might need to learn, and constantly adjust your career goals to encompass these things.