THE ALPHA ASSIST: WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN

One of the primary tenets of being an Alpha Woman is turning your success into a “way up” for the women who come after you. I like to refer to this as the “Alpha Assist.” 

Opportunity and success mean very little if we don’t use them to help support and mentor those around us. 

What is an “Alpha Assist?”

The Alpha Assist can look different for each of us. The Alpha Assist is about sharing knowledge and insights and offering worthwhile guidance. But, it’s also about advocating for other women. If you’re in a room where decisions are made, advocate for the advancement of other women. We have to have each other’s backs.

via GIPHY

Your Actions Make a Difference

You never know the impact you have on those around you. Take the time to lift others up, mentor them, answer their questions, help them advance. Give them your time. It’s the Alpha way!

I was humbled to receive this note from a past colleague after she read my book, you never know what impact you may have on those who cross your path. I am sharing it here with her permission. 

“Robin, today I had a previous intern reach out to me just to say hello. And your book was in my head. Supporting women is always important to me, but your book made me remember it cannot be something that I do when it is convenient. Where would I be if it wasn’t for those who have given me time and guidance along the way? Thank you for the important reminder– I will keep it with me.”

The Alpha Assist in Action

Supporting others does not have to be an arduous task. It can simply be taking time to respond to an email, grab that coffee, or, in today’s climate, hop on a zoom call. Here are a few ways you can get started in supporting the work and careers of other women. 

1. Be kind
2. Respond to that text or email from a younger colleague
3. Take that request for coffee or lunch
4. Offer words of encouragement and share your experiences
5. Speak up on their behalf
6. Share opportunities, even those outside of work, that might help them advance
7. Advocate for their success, recommend them for that promotion
8. Support their projects

My Challenge to You

The next time a female colleague approaches you for help or just for companionship, engage with her. She’s not your competition, she’s your sister. Learn and grow from each other, lift each other up, push each other and work toward success together!