What Women in Emerging Economies Must Do To Succeed

Smith School Hosts Expert on Career Advancement of Women in Emerging Economies

How can women around the world succeed and lead?

That question was at the forefront at an April 18 event hosted by the Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), Office of Career Services (OCS), and the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship. Rania Habiby Anderson, author of “UNDETERRED: The Six Success Habits of Women in Emerging Economies” and founder of TheWayWomenWork.com, served as guest speaker.

Anderson explained to the more than 50 audience members how she conducted research for UNDETERRED, interviewing women in emerging economies about how they became successful. She said she purposefully avoided focusing on the obstacles that they faced, since discussions frequently focus on the challenges that women face and not the behaviors that they demonstrated to overcome those difficulties. Based on the interviews, she found that there were six habits successful women had in common. They were undeterred, prepared, focused, able to integrate work and life, accelerated forward, and that they lead.

Rebecca Bellinger, managing director of the Office of Global Initiatives and CIBER, introduced Anderson, highlighting the broad application of her findings.

In her speech, Anderson focused on seven shifts women must make as they transition from college to the workforce. They must become more confident, be able to communicate their achievements and aspirations, build networks, and shift from following to leading. She spoke about the importance of balancing respect for others while also staying true to what is important to yourself.

After her presentation, a Q&A session took place. Anderson answered questions on how to build and work on your presence, strategies to improve meeting people, and understanding how to do something that may at first seem uncomfortable. A book signing reception followed.

“CIBER was pleased to host this event with OCS and Dingman,” said CIBER assistant director Marina Augoustidis. “Rania touched on many tangible skills that students, and anyone pursuing a career in global business – male or female – can focus on to make themselves successful. I think the way she differentiates the skills that make you successful as a student are not what will make you successful in your career was really important to highlight.”

To learn about future Distinguished Speaker Events at the Smith School, please visit go.umd.edu/CIBER.

This program is sponsored in part by the Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), a Title VI grant from the U.S. Department of Education.