a Tuesday afternoon , you traverse the floor of the dealership you co-founded over five years ago . A swell of pride engulfs you as you observe trailer models in the showroom , your mind effortlessly rattling off specs . You possess an in-depth understanding of this industry and can engage in trailer discussions for days .
The door swings open , and two men enter , appearing to be father and son . The son , in his mid-thirties , accompanies the father , likely in his early fifties . Spotting no salesperson nearby , you confidently approach them and inquire if you can assist .
They want to purchase three trailers for their landscaping business . Understanding their needs , you begin describing options when the older gentleman interjects , “ Thanks for all that , honey , but could you get your boss ?” The son , slightly embarrassed for you , attempts to clarify , asking , “ Are you a salesperson here ?”
Intending to explain that you are the owner , you start , “ I ’ m sorry , no , however ...” Before you can complete your thought , the otherwise kind-looking gentleman asserts , “ We don ’ t want to keep you from answering phones , if you could just page the man in charge ...” Suddenly , your thoughts shift from making a sale to biting your lip to avoid screaming in frustration .
Permission to Assert Your Dominance In the dynamic landscape of male-centric industries , the journey for women is often marked by such challenges and assumptions . As a woman in a field traditionally led by men , chances are you have faced similar scenarios .
It doesn ’ t have to be this way . To break through these barriers and thrive , women must grant themselves permission to dominate . This doesn ’ t imply bulldozing others . Instead , it ’ s inner permissions and subtle actions that position you as an expert , fostering confidence in your business .
Let ’ s reimagine the dealership scene . The father and son walk in , and you approach them confidently . Firmly shaking hands , you introduce yourself , “ Hi , I am Carrie Organa , founder and owner of ABC dealership . I ’ ve been in the trailer industry for 13 years , and I love finding the perfect solution for our customers . What brought you in today ?”
Their response was , “ We need to replace three trailers for our landscaping business .” You reply , “ That ’ s great ! I have several models perfect for landscaping hauls . Let me walk you to the right area to see our in-stock options while I page one of my Sales Executives to assist you .”
In this version , the owner , Carrie , allows no room for downgrades . She asserts herself as an expert , takes control of the conversation , and confidently delegates to her team . She established expertise without diminishing others .
Inner Work : The Essence of Permission to Dominate We could talk at length about the disadvantages women have in society and in business . We can march , protest , vote , argue , litigate , and even scream . All perfectly reasonable actions that have a time and place for creating change on the outside .
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56 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org