On August 19th, Lean In Ohio's Coffee Shop circle, moderated by Marissa Buckles met to discuss the powerful TedTalk by Sheryl Sandberg,  "Why We Have Too Few Women Leaders."

In her talk, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg discusses why a smaller percentage of women than men reach the top of their professions -- and offers 3 powerful pieces of advice to women aiming for the C-suite.

A Key Takeaway from our discussion:

Women face the likability penalty more than men. For women, likability and success do not pair well. As one member recalled in the workplace, unlikable characteristics can form a wedge between a team leader and her members. So to build bridges, she had to shift her leadership style and explore ways to connect with them. However, as an activist, one member felt that it is a fine line between prioritizing one's popularity as a leader and making choices that would not silence her beliefs and voice. What is your take? Is it important for women to be likable to lead?

In the wake of the former Google employee's sexist 10-page memo, we discussed  how women could be better advocates in the workplace to confront sexism and biases without penalty. As a resource, the book, Feminist Fight Club was recommended by members of the group which encompasses several obstacles women face in the workplace and tactics on how to confront each situation. 

Join us next month!
Our Lean In Circle bonds over coffee, an occasional glass of wine and friendship. Connecting through Lean In education and conversation, we are building the sort of peer support and sponsorship that's needed to thrive as professionals and leaders.

All are welcome. We are an inclusive community- we welcome any gender and/or anyone facing intersectional challenges.

Join us for the next Coffee Shop meeting on September 30th.
{Join our Meetup to follow our event calendar.}

Seeking a way to get involved more? There are opportunities to moderate a Coffee Shop Circle on October 28th & December 16th. Contact us at leanindayton@gmail.com for more info.