Let’s root for each other and watch each other grow

“For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack.” – Rudyard Kipling, The Jungle Book

This century-old line still holds true today. Every individual contributes to the collective strength of a team, just as a strong team empowers its members. Success is rarely a solo journey—it’s built through collaboration, learning, and support.

Yet, despite talent, education, and resilience, leadership opportunities are not always evenly distributed. Many professionals, especially women, find themselves navigating additional challenges on the path to senior roles. So, what makes the difference?

On this International Women’s Day, let’s discuss some game-changing moves and key strategies for success. While the leadership journey is unique for each individual, there are common strategies that set successful leaders apart. The ability to own your achievements, take risks, build strong networks, and continuously learn plays a significant role in career progression.

Through conversations with leaders and personal experiences, I have identified eight key strategies that could help professionals step into leadership with confidence. These insights, drawn from trailblazing leaders like Indra Nooyi (Former CEO, PepsiCo), Ginni Rometty (Former CEO, IBM), Sheryl Sandberg (Former COO, Meta), Reshma Saujani (Founder, Girls Who Code), and Mary Barra (CEO, General Motors), offer actionable guidance for leadership growth.

8 Game-Changing Moves for Leadership Success

1. Own Your Seat at the Table

Be prepared, speak up, and play an active role in decision-making.

“Own your seat, speak up, and back it with data—it’s a powerful tool.”

Early in my career, I struggled with this. But once I started using data to support my points, everything changed. Whenever questions arose, I had facts ready, making my perspective clear and decisions more rational. I also invested in a team member skilled in data analysis, which broadened our approach to reporting and measurement.

In 2022, after the global crisis, we faced immense challenges in bringing talent from Asia to the Middle East. Despite successfully onboarding over 200 people, the focus remained on talent shortages rather than our achievements. Instead of staying silent, I secured a slot with the Board and spent the night preparing a data-driven presentation. The next day, I laid it all out. The room erupted in applause, and I knew it was worth it. That moment reinforced a powerful lesson: own your work, speak up, and make sure your efforts are recognized.

2. Claim Your Achievements – Recognize your contributions and articulate them confidently.

Hard work often goes unnoticed unless you make it visible. Advocating for yourself isn’t boasting—it’s essential for career growth. When I first stepped into a leadership role, I assumed my work would speak for itself. But success isn’t just about effort; it’s about visibility. I learned to document wins, share key milestones, and ensure recognition for both my team and myself.

3. Build & Invest in Your Network

Seek mentorship, sponsorship, and build strong industry connections.

Networking isn’t about collecting contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships. Over the years, I have connected with industry leaders by attending conferences and engaging with like-minded professionals. These connections have provided invaluable insights, opportunities, and a strong support system.

4. Get Comfortable with Risk

Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

At Paramount, our experiments have shaped a unique organization. Some initiatives thrived, some failed—but every risk brought valuable lessons. My CEO and mentor have always encouraged bold decisions, and this culture of risk-taking has helped us implement distinct engagement strategies, cross-learning methodologies, and future-proofing initiatives through digital enablement.

5. Prioritize Continuous Learning

Stay adaptable and open to evolving challenges.

Beyond formal education, learning from diverse sources has been my greatest teacher. Borrowing strategies from different industries and applying them to our initiatives has led to innovative solutions and long-term success.

6. Develop Executive Presence

Communicate with clarity and conviction.

A genuine and authentic communication style has helped me connect with my team at Paramount. Convincing internal stakeholders, especially male counterparts with fixed objectives, can be tough. However, maintaining a tone of conviction and presenting well-researched data strengthens credibility and influence.

7. Balance Empathy with Tough Decisions

Be approachable, yet firm in leadership choices.

Early in my career, balancing empathy with tough decisions was challenging. Over time, I learned to approach difficult situations rationally, ensuring the best outcomes for all involved. Leadership isn’t about being liked—it’s about being respected for making fair and informed choices.

8. Redefine Success & Break the Rules

Choose progress over perfection.

While many appreciate our initiatives, we recognize there is always room for improvement. Our participation rates in engagement programs still have a long way to go, but what keeps us moving forward is the positive impact and reflections shared. We have redefined success by breaking norms, empowering diverse representatives, and driving engagement in new ways.

Lifting Each Other Up

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s shift our focus from barriers to possibilities. Success isn’t defined by one path or one group—it’s about creating space for diverse voices and perspectives.

Each of us brings something unique to the table. When we lift each other up, we all rise together.

Let’s root for each other and grow together!