How to be One of 29000
Chattanooga, TN: Denise Reed, owner of The Concierge Office Suites, which recently celebrated 10 years under her ownership, is now the moderator for the Lean In – WomenGroundBreakers Chattanooga Circle. Prior founder of WomenGroundBreakers affiliated with the Lean In movement and creator of the Chattanooga Circle, Deborah Levine, passed the baton to Mrs. Reed in September due to Mrs. Levine’s upcoming book launch, “Religious Diversity at Work,” and speaking tour.
A Circle is a think tank event that meets regularly to inspire and educate by sharing stories and magnifying a collective voice supporting women. Each monthly event will cover different topics generated from Sheryl Sandberg‘s Lean In movement from national leading educators and experts. Women who desire to further their careers, improve their entrepreneurial experience, or engage with forward-thinking women with practical problem solving ideas all over the world participate in these events.
The Lean In movement is based upon the New York Times bestselling book, “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” by TED speaker and author Sheryl Sandberg, who previously worked at Google and now works at Facebook as C00 and is a member of the board of directors. The book gives a compelling perspective about women in the workplace. It encourages women to pursue their ambitions and to change the conversation from what women can’t do to what they can do.
Anne-Marie Slaughter, who wrote the New York Times review of the book explains, “Her point, in a nutshell, is that notwithstanding the many gender biases that still operate all over the workplace, excuses and justifications won’t get women anywhere. Instead, believe in yourself, give it your all, “lean in” and “don’t leave before you leave” — which is to say, don’t doubt your ability to combine work and family and thus edge yourself out of plum assignments.” In short, women should seek opportunities to support each other creating a personal and professional support network. This involves mentors who have forged ahead sharing their experience and career sponsorship, along with peer-to-peer encouragement and recommendations.
To date there are 29,000 Circles in 147 countries and the Lean In – WomenGroundBreakers Chattanooga Circle is among them. Mrs. Reed is incredibly excited and honored to be moderator and now spearheading such an important mission. She hopes more women and even men in the Chattanooga community get involved in this active and supportive community that offers advice and motivation for leaning in at work and maintaining a healthy balance with work and family.
The Lean In – WomenGroundBreakers event registration is listed on Eventbrite and has a Facebook group for sharing and learning. The Concierge Office Suites sponsors several Circle events a month. The next Circle is the Lunch Bunch Circle, scheduled on November 9th from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at The Concierge Office Suites.