Women are not just participating in, but shaping the future of business: Sally Lee

Adgully has consistently celebrated and acknowledged the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs and leaders in various sectors. One of our notable initiatives, W-SUITE, focuses on highlighting extraordinary women achievers in the Media & Entertainment, Advertising, Marketing, PR, and Communications industry. In this updated series, we aim to explore how women leaders adeptly manage their teams and overcome challenges in the dynamic landscape of their respective industries.

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Sally Lee, Brand General Manager, Laneige India, speaks about the role and scope of women leaders in today’s market ecosystem, leadership roles, gender sensitivity and inclusion in the new normal, role of female brand ambassadors in brand endorsement, maintaining a successful work-life balance, and more.

How do you think the role and scope of women leaders have widened in the current market ecosystem?

Women leaders have significantly increased in today’s business ecosystem, highlighting a shift towards greater inclusivity and diversity within organizations. This progress is supported by policies promoting gender equality, mentorship programs, and an increasing recognition of the unique perspectives women bring to leadership. The broadening of women’s leadership roles has also been accelerated by societal changes and a global push towards more equitable workplace practices. Women are not just participating, but excelling in leadership positions, shaping the future of business.

As a prominent female leader in the industry, how have your experiences shaped your leadership style, and what unique strengths do you believe women bring to leadership roles?

As a prominent female leader, my experiences have instilled in me a leadership style centered on empathy, collaboration, and resilience. Navigating diverse challenges has reinforced the importance of listening and inclusive decision making. Women bring unique strengths to leadership roles, such as emotional intelligence, multitasking capabilities, and a natural propensity for fostering strong, supportive teams. These attributes not only enhance organizational culture but also drive innovation and sustained success.

What is your mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance in the new normal?

Maintaining a successful work life balance in the new normal requires a mindful approach. My mantra revolves around setting clear boundaries and prioritizing self care. I start my day with a structured schedule, incorporating regular breaks to recharge. Embracing flexibility and adaptability is key, as the new normal demands a fluid response to changing circumstances. I make time for activities that rejuvenate me, whether it's a workout, a hobby or spending quality time with loved ones. By staying organized and setting realistic goals, I ensure that my professional and personal lives complement each other, fostering overall well-being and productivity.

According to you, what makes women the best in crisis management?

Their strong emotional intelligence enables women to stay calm and make clear-headed decisions under pressure. They are often great communicators, fostering collaboration and ensuring all voices are heard, which is crucial in resolving crises. Additionally, women tend to be empathetic, allowing them to understand the needs of all stakeholders and act accordingly. Their ability to multitask effectively ensures that various aspects of a crisis are managed simultaneously. Lastly, many women possess a natural resilience, helping them navigate and lead through challenging situations with determination and grace. The way I cope with crises is by not thinking about work outside of working hours. Taking a moment to stop and not think about it is also a method. By taking a break and focusing on other things, new solutions might suddenly come to mind. Continuously worrying about the same crisis doesn’t help.

Gender sensitivity and inclusion in the new normal – how can organizations effectively encourage and groom women leaders in challenging times?

Understand the emotional capabilities of women. Of course, since each woman has different physical strength and empathy, they should not be discriminated against based on gender, and should be distinguished as strong individuals. However, there should be no discrimination regarding women’s performance and work ability in the workplace, and it should be recognized that female leaders are equally capable of performing their duties well based on their strength. Equal work opportunities should be given to women as well.

Could you share some observations on the expanding role of female brand ambassadors in brand endorsement?

It reflects a shift towards more inclusive, authentic, and impactful marketing. By leveraging the influence and relatability of women, brands can connect more deeply with their audiences, drive consumer engagement, and promote positive values. Laneige also just announced Sara Tendulkar as their brand ambassador. We chose Sara as she brings to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality.