5 Women Executives Share Their Best Advice For Breaking Into Leadership Roles

Breaking into leadership roles is no easy feat, especially for women. One report found that only 37% of senior leadership positions globally are filled by women. The road to the top is often a maze, filled with challenges, biases, lack of mentorship and the pressure to prove yourself every step of the way. Yet more and more women are finding success in leadership positions, defying the odds and creating room for others to follow.

The journey is unique for each woman, but advice from those who’ve already made it can be a game-changer. From owning your ambition to building a network of allies, these five women executives have learned valuable lessons and can offer critical insights. 

Indra Nooyi’s leadership advice revolves around the importance of building relationships and taking ownership of decisions. During her 12 years as PepsiCo CEO, Indra emphasized how important it was for leaders to interact authentically and foster a sense of trust with their teams. 

She believes that being transparent and empathetic creates a culture of accountability, which drives an organization’s success. 

Former COO of Facebook Sheryl Sandberg is a strong advocate for women’s leadership. Her advice often centers around the importance of embracing ambition and striving for growth without apology. 

Sheryl encourages women to “lean in” to their careers, take risks and ensure their voices are heard in meetings. She also emphasizes the importance of mentoring and supporting other women, as lifting others is key to personal and collective success. 

Oprah Winfrey’s advice is rooted in self-awareness and the power of resilience. She has consistently stated that true leadership is about finding your purpose and using your platform to serve others. Oprah teaches that vulnerability and authenticity are essential for connecting with people on a deeper level. 

Her leadership philosophy includes the idea that setbacks are opportunities for growth and success, which are not defined by material accomplishments but by how you positively impact others’ lives. 

Angela Ahrendts is known for her transformational leadership style, particularly in her former role as Senior Vice President of Retail at Apple. She emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful connections, both with customers and team members. 

Angela’s leadership advice focuses on leading with empathy, empowering individuals to take ownership, and fostering an environment of open communication. She has shared that being a great leader means understanding the strengths and needs of your team and guiding them toward achieving shared goals. 

As the first woman CEO of General Motors, Mary Barra is a trailblazer in the automotive industry. Her leadership advice centers on the importance of resilience and the ability to adapt to many different situations, which can set you up well in the job market. Barra emphasizes that leaders should never stop evolving, as industries are constantly changing. 

Mary advocates for a culture of inclusivity and diversity, believing that a diverse workforce leads to better decision-making and innovation. Her advice encourages women to break through barriers and take on leadership roles, especially in industries dominated by men. 

All five of these women have set exceptional examples of leadership, inspiring others to take charge with authenticity, resilience and a commitment to empowering others. 

These powerhouse women have shown that leadership is about more than holding a title. It’s about making meaningful connections, empowering others, and leading with heart and strategy. Each of these leaders has crafted a unique path to success. What unites them all is their unwavering commitment to leading with authenticity, empathy and purpose. 

As you move forward in your leadership journey, remember that leadership is not a destination but a constant evolution. Channel your inner fire, embrace the challenges and lead with the confidence that you, too, can change the game.