In her book, Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg gives example after example of women, including herself, missing out on professional opportunities. Sometimes they hesitate when presented with an opportunity to lead a new project or they don't ask for a raise when they know they should get one. In other words, they lean back when they could lean in.
The book influenced a group of local women to form Lean In Louisville. It’s part of the national Lean In organization inspired by the book. The idea is that local Lean In organizations will form smaller groups of 8-10 called circles where women can share experiences and learn from each other.
The kickoff event for Lean In Louisville is this Wednesday, March 12, starting at 5 p.m. at the Clifton Center. The event starts with networking from 5-5:30. A short panel discussion about issues and challenges that women face in the workplace follows. Then the larger group will divide into smaller circles.
After the initial meetup, the circles will meet in at various locations and times to accomodate members' schedules. Becky Swansburg, one of the founders of Lean In Louisville says, "We hope the circles will be a little bit rabble rousing, that they'll spark a conversation." She also says that any men who want to discuss these issues are welcome too.
Just the Details
Lean In Louisville kickoff event
Wednesday, February 12, 5-7 p.m. at the Clifton Center
For more information and to RSVP: Lean In Louisville's Facebook event
Photo: Flickr user JodiWomack
