CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal November/December 2024 | Page 26

MORE SUPPORT FOR WOMEN

“ We need more training on how to meet and make real connections with women after 30 . I want to create more intentional networking opportunities where the programming is built around learning how to make new friends ! I think it is easy to underestimate the power of a strong social network ,” said Jernigan .

LOCAL RESOURCES FOR WORKING WOMEN

Access Montgomery ’ s Small Business One Stop Shop ( SBOSS )

Small Business Administration The Chamber of Commerce

TOP TIPS FOR NETWORKING

“ Write down a list of every strength and weakness you have , for all your weaknesses , write down who you have in your life that can counteract that weakness . For every weakness you don ’ t have a name next to , your mission when you go to your next networking event is to find someone to help you fill that gap . I promise you will talk differently , you will be more intentional in your conversations and you will stop feeling lost when you walk in a room full of strangers because now you have a mission ,” advised Jernigan .

CREATING A SUPPORTIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT

Kimberly Justice at Alabama State Veterans Homes shared , “ It is key to have support through family and close friends to assist when there are periods that are more demanding , and the ability to work remotely has been a game changer . It is important to find an organization that is in line with ensuring you can put your family first at times and still accomplish the work goals .”

Workplaces that truly empower women have created environments where career advancement and family life are not seen as competing priorities but complementary goals . Building spaces where women at any stage — whether young professionals , mothers or experienced workers — can flourish .

HELPFUL STEPS FOR COMPANIES TO INCLUDE :

FLEXIBLE WORK POLICIES : Offering remote work , job-sharing and flexible hours allows women to meet both family and professional goals .

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS : Investing in mentorship and leadership programs provides women with the tools and networks they need to advance .

HEALTH AND WELLNESS SUPPORT : Offering maternity leave , mental health resources and support during the fourth trimester allows women to feel supported during their most vulnerable times .

Jernigan emphasized the importance of flexible work policies . “ As it relates to the office environment , we need to move from connecting the work being done to seeing someone in the office . The focus needs to be on meeting work deadlines while enhancing company work culture . We should never feel pressured to send a sick child to school because ‘ mommy has to work .’ Leaders need to be empathetic to these situations and allow the freedom to work from home without the employee feeling guilty about it ,” she said .

The women in this feature and many beyond are rewriting the rules for success , proving that it ’ s possible to lead , innovate and for some , raise families , all at once . The key lies in building workplaces that recognize and celebrate the many roles women play and providing them with the tools , flexibility and support to succeed . Far from being held back by the demands of work and family , women are harnessing their strengths to shape the future of business .