Week 19: Three Female CEOs Who Inspire

Friday, March 8 was International Women's Day. Companies and organizations around the world hosted events focused on this year's them of building a gender-balanced world (#balanceforbetter).

As I prepared for the events at my company, I thought a lot about how fortunate I am to have great female role models. I know three women who are CEOs, and they are some of the smartest, most effective leaders I've ever worked with. They build and motivate high performing teams. They lead successful businesses. They are industry leaders.

One thing that's particularly great about all three of them is that they don't try to be men. Back when I started working, advice to women was to avoid showing femininity (aka weakness). I was once told not to bring baked goods to work because it made me seem like the cafeteria lady and not like a businessperson.

These women inspire me, not just because of their accomplishments, but because they are themselves. Having these role models is a sign to all working women that you can be yourself and be successful at work.

Thanks to all the women who inspire many of us around the world!

PS: I left the job where I was discouraged to bring in home-made cookies. The place I'm at now -- they love them!

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