Celebrating Women’s History Month – Week 2
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting the female members of the Bob Gold & Associates team. For week 2 Q&A we’re featuring Roxanne Leone.
Roxanne brings two decades of experience leading technology companies and their communications teams in strategic PR and marketing programs. Her thought leadership and branding efforts have secured top tier coverage putting organizations and their executives top of mind with reporters and editors.
Q&A
What words of wisdom can you share with an aspiring female PR professional?
After working with some of the brightest women in the PR industry I have noticed that the most successful individuals have pursued mentorship or coaching by other industry leaders. If you are a female PR professional, I recommend you inquire about professional training and/or coaching early on in your career.
Also, self-promotion is a critical tool for career advancement. Studies show that women evaluate themselves lower than men, even when they have scored equally, which could affect your salary.
The good news is women have come a long way. In the early 2000’s, I experienced women being threatened by female colleagues and I partnered with a mentor, Fred Towns, to strengthen my skillset, become more vocal, and stand up for myself. Fortunately, over the last 20 years I have been part of a positive shift where women now view their female colleagues as ally’s vs threats. It is important to get involved with an organization such as the Women’s Global Leadership Initiative and participate in programs designed for women by women. Founder, Diana Ruiz, is a CEO focused on diversity, equity & inclusion and leadership development and her talented team of mentors and experts can help you build self-confidence.
What are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?
Today, women continue to face pregnancy discrimination and unemployment and it has been amplified by the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 275,000 women left the workforce in January 2021, compared to 71,000 men. Experts believe that the pandemic will leave a lasting impact on women that are integral to the economic security of their families. Unfortunately, women are penalized when pregnant and for taking extended time off – often suffering a wage penalty when they return to the workforce. Oddly enough, some men are paid more after having children.
When do you think America will have its first female president?
I am hopeful that Kamala Harris will run for president after serving our 46th president of the United States, Joe Biden. Kamala is the first female vice president, and the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history. We are in desperate need of female role models across all industries, and more women placed in top leadership positions. If we continue to support a growing female workforce more women will be equipped to go after the career of their choice. I am optimistic that I will see a female president in my lifetime, whether it be Kamala or other front-runner in our future.
Be sure to read our Women’s History Month Q&A with VP, Beth Braen, from Week 1.
