Recap WITI Boston - September 11, 2014

Recap WITI Boston - September 11, 2014
"Being an Inspired Leader - Traits, Tips and Truths"
By Emily Ubik

Both WITI Boston members and nonmembers met last Thursday to hear the Executive and Senior Coach, Laurie Gerber, of the Handel Group speak about how to become an inspired leader. The event was sponsored by AT&T and hosted by Sherin and Lodgen LLP. The evening began with networking and a delightful array of appetizers and drinks.

Laurie started off by introducing herself and the Handel Group's mission. Her job and the company's goal is to teach people how to dream, tell the truth, and to find each client's purpose. The Handel Method tries to help you shift your way of thinking. Laurie began the interactive presentation by stating that leadership is trainable. It is something that can be learned; it just takes time and practice. Everyone has a different style of leadership, something unique to offer and teach. Laurie reminded everyone that you should not try and be someone else. This does not help anyone, including yourself.

There are two main ingredients for "inspired leadership." The first is to simply believe in yourself. Confidence is a key ingredient. Second is to figure out exactly what it is you want to say or teach. You need to know how to clearly deliver whatever message you are trying to convey. Together the group brainstormed specific characteristics an inspired leader should have. The list Laurie introduced was quite similar to the suggestions of the audience. The list included having a clear vision, strong sense of integrity and a desire for change. Laurie also recommended being transparent, always talking, and taking risks. The last one she mentioned was the toughest - being able to manage your own mind.

Next, Laurie had attendees rate themselves on each characteristic of inspired leadership. Together we went over what we learned about ourselves through this self-evaluation. To improve your personal integrity, Laurie suggested making promises to yourself - different actions or a new way of thinking can change everything. Your own mind is your biggest obstacle. You are the author of your life; you can change it if you do not like what you see.

Some tips to remember when trying to be an inspired leader are to have a clear understanding of your purpose and what you are trying to share with others. Laurie also said that developing personal integrity (promises to yourself are key here) is an important part. Another tip is to talk and talk some more. Laurie offered some worthwhile advice - "When you speak, you lead." When speaking, being yourself is crucial. Act naturally. Plan to take risks. And learn to change your mind.

The evening ended on a high note with a WITI raffle. Two WITI t-shirts, a WITI bag, and a complementary membership were given away! The networking continued as another successful event came to a close.

About the Author:
Emily Ubik is in her fourth year at Boston University pursuing a double major in electrical engineering and archaeology. She comes to Boston from the Midwest and was interested in getting to know women in business and making connections. She came across Women in Technology through her father, when he mentioned that WITI was trying to become more involved with universities. She is now an active member of the local network and is looking forward to writing more about WITI Boston events.

About Women in Technology Boston:
The Boston affiliation of Women in Technology International offers multiple events throughout the year in metro Boston and downtown. Our focus is to provide ways in which women of all ages, skill sets and backgrounds connect with other women both locally and globally to advance their careers and improve the leadership development skills. For 2014 fun events and relevant leadership development content will be provided for members and non-members alike. To learn more and see what's up next, visit http://www.witi.com/boston

Opinions expressed by the author are not necessarily those of WITI.