Women are often meeker in meetings and afraid to ask for raises and promotions. I've told countless female colleagues to stop apologizing when they ask for more. It's not personal, it's business.
Interpretation
Women should assert themselves in professional settings without feeling the need to apologize for their ambitions.
This quote highlights the tendency of women to be less assertive in professional environments, particularly when it comes to advocating for their own career advancement. Katharine Weymouth emphasizes the importance of eliminating unnecessary apologies in such situations, framing the pursuit of raises and promotions as a legitimate business matter rather than a personal confrontation.
In practice
In a workshop on women's empowerment, this quote can be used to encourage participants to speak up for their needs.
I spent my 20s earning minimum wage decorating cakes for a living. But one day, I looked in the mirror and realized I wanted more, for me and my people. I saw too many Native Americans struggling, and I realized we should have a voice in who our elected officials are.
We will take care of every single person in our society. That is our task.
It's nice to come into a town and be referred to as the manager of the Cleveland Indians instead of as the first black manager.
To not apologize for the behavior of the players to another manager is unthinkable. It's a disgrace, but I don't expect Wenger to ever apologize...he's that type of person.
As a leader, you will never get ahead until your people are behind you.
Hold on to your own ideal. . . . Above all, never attempt to guide or rule others, or, as the Yankees say, "boss" others. Be the servant of all.
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