When it comes to building a personal brand in professional life, I believe the best approach is to “walk the talk.” In other words, start by communicating your key actions and explaining the value and impact behind them. This approach positions you as a confident professional - someone who is transparent and unafraid to be seen and heard. It's important to remember that a personal brand is a tool for showcasing what you are truly passionate about. You can't build it without a genuine interest in what you do; otherwise, it becomes nothing more than a fancy wrapping with no real essence.

As for establishing authority, it begins with expertise and a solid professional reputation. Authority is built on consistent, high-quality work and deep industry knowledge. Skills and expertise form the foundation of trust, and with trust comes responsibility and respect. A strong personal brand, in turn, helps you gain social capital - opening doors and creating new opportunities.

I consider myself lucky. In consulting, I never felt like I had to “fight for my place” just because I’m a woman. But I know that for many, the path has been very different. In corporate finance, international business, and investment, women have often had to prove their expertise ten times more than men. Part of this comes down to industry norms. In Ukraine, consulting isn’t seen as a strictly male-dominated field. But in many Western countries, business culture remains far more closed. If we want to change that, women can’t just adapt to the system — they need to set their own rules.

Building a personal brand requires a multifaceted approach. Women should actively seek challenging assignments that stretch their capabilities, thereby accumulating “experience capital” — the practical knowledge and skills gained through on-the-job experiences. Engaging in thought leadership activities, such as public speaking engagements, publishing articles, and participating in industry panels, enhances visibility and credibility. Authenticity is paramount; aligning one’s personal values with professional endeavors fosters trust and reinforces authority. In the context of Ukraine, initiatives promoting women’s leadership and entrepreneurship are gaining momentum, providing platforms for women to showcase their expertise and contribute to economic development.

• The ability to think strategically. Early in your career, it’s easy to get caught up in operational tasks, leaving little time or energy to think about the bigger picture. However, it’s crucial to always have a higher goal - a strategic vision - and understand how your daily work contributes to moving forward.
• The ability to pivot. Sometimes, we cling too tightly to a predefined plan, even when it no longer serves us. But the ability to adapt - turning the tables when necessary - can help you grow faster and more effectively. Speaking from experience, I was a successful lawyer, but when the full-scale war started, I realized I could apply my legal expertise and experience in civil service, just when my country needed me the most. I made a pivot into something entirely new, and so far, it has proven to be the right decision.
• Being a people person. No matter where you work, you work with people. Building strong relationships - with colleagues, managers, and business partners - lays the foundation for career growth. When there’s trust and mutual respect, you’re more likely to be heard when presenting ideas and recognized for your contributions. In the end, career success is often not just about what you know but also about the relationships you build along the way.

Competence is essential, but expertise alone isn’t enough — you need to showcase it. Many women wait until they feel “100% ready” before putting themselves out there, while men often take action immediately. But confidence isn’t something you wait for — it’s something you build through action. Here’s how to establish your presence:

• Be visible. Write articles, speak at events, and share your experiences—even if you don’t feel like an expert yet.
• Position yourself as a thought leader. Share insights, offer solutions, and engage in meaningful conversations within your industry.
• Leverage social media. A strong online presence can help amplify your voice and attract opportunities. Visibility builds credibility.

Career advancement is a result of strategic actions and continuous personal development. Consider these strategies for growth:

• Build a strong network: Cultivate relationships with mentors who offer guidance and sponsors who open doors to new opportunities.
• Embrace lifelong learning: Continuously acquire new skills and stay updated on industry trends to remain competitive.
• Master organizational dynamics: Understand and navigate workplace politics to position yourself for success.
• Be resilient: In Ukraine, women have demonstrated remarkable resilience, stepping into leadership roles in sectors like the military and creative industries, driving innovation and societal progress.

• Resilience. Leadership comes with challenges, and setbacks are inevitable. The ability to bounce back, keep a clear head, and move forward despite difficulties is what sets strong leaders apart. Women in leadership often face additional scrutiny, so resilience is key to staying focused and confident.
• Ability to see potential in others. One of the pillars of being a successful leader is knowing how to delegate responsibilities. This not only frees up time for more strategic work but also empowers the people around you, giving them a sense of ownership and room to grow. When you recognize the potential in your team, you create a strong, motivated group that works with you - not just for you.
• Decisiveness. Making decisions is one of the biggest leverages but also burdens that come with leadership. A leader who hesitates too much risks losing momentum. It’s not about always being right but about taking responsibility, making informed choices, and standing by them. The ability to act with confidence - even in uncertainty - is what keeps things moving forward.

Women in leadership often face a double standard: if they’re assertive, they’re labeled “too aggressive”; if they’re diplomatic, they’re seen as “too soft.” True leadership isn’t about meeting others’ expectations — it’s about leading on your own terms. Essential leadership skills include:

• Adaptability. The ability to pivot and thrive in changing environments is crucial.
• Decisiveness. Confidence in decision-making earns respect and trust.
• Resilience. Setbacks are inevitable, but persistence is what defines successful leaders.

Successful leadership requires a unique combination of technical proficiency and interpersonal skills. Emotional intelligence is vital —it allows leaders to connect with their teams on a deeper level, creating an environment of trust and collaboration. Equally important is resilience, particularly in the face of obstacles. Leaders who can navigate setbacks with grace and determination are the ones who achieve long-term success. Coupled with strategic thinking and decisive action, these qualities ensure leaders can guide their teams through uncertainty. In Ukraine, initiatives to boost female representation in leadership roles are gaining traction, as the country recognizes that women’s distinct perspectives and problem-solving abilities are critical not only for organizational success but for societal progress as well.