Navigating workplace challenges Q & A with Gail Banack and Ilana Santone

In this special Q&A episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone tackle listener questions on navigating workplace challenges. They discuss executive presence, stepping into unfamiliar roles, and handling difficult colleagues, emphasizing perception, preparation, and adaptability. The conversation also explores strategies for dealing with undermining coworkers, managing work-life guilt, embracing career pivots, and preventing burnout through boundary-setting and self-care. With personal insights and practical advice, Gail and Ilana highlight the power of proactive communication and resilience in professional success.

Key Takeaways

Executive Presence & Career Growth

• Executive presence is about perception—confidence and articulation are key.
• Preparation enhances credibility, and vulnerability can strengthen leadership.
• Feedback is essential; ask for specific input and observe successful leaders.
• Embrace unfamiliar roles as opportunities to develop valuable skills.

Workplace Dynamics & Conflict Resolution

• Understanding others' motivations can help in conflict resolution.
• Proactive engagement can reduce undermining behavior.

Work-Life Balance & Burnout Prevention

• Work-life guilt is common, but quality time with family matters more than quantity.
• It’s never too late to pivot in your career.
• Burnout can be managed through boundary-setting and realistic expectations.
• Recovery must be a daily practice—self-care is key to long-term success.

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