Books to Read

In our “Books to Read” series we have another interesting book for you. This was a new one for me, but well worth the time. This one is “Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office” by Lois P. Frankel. Here is our summary:

1. How You Play the Game

Many women avoid workplace politics, believing that hard work alone will get them ahead. However, Frankel argues that understanding office dynamics and actively positioning oneself for success is crucial.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Thinking that promotions are based solely on merit.
• Avoiding self-promotion because it feels like bragging.
• Staying silent in meetings instead of sharing ideas confidently.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Learn the unwritten rules of workplace politics.
• Speak up and take credit for your achievements.
• Develop strategic alliances with influential colleagues.

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2. How You Act

Women are often socialized to be overly accommodating, which can make them appear less authoritative. Frankel advises women to adjust their behaviours to project confidence and competence.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Smiling too much or nodding excessively, which can make women seem overly agreeable.
• Using self-deprecating language (“I’m not an expert, but…”) that undermines credibility.
• Dressing in a way that prioritises being “likable” over a professional presence.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Develop executive presence by balancing warmth with authority.
• Eliminate minimising phrases from your vocabulary.
• Dress in a way that aligns with leadership roles.

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3. How You Think

Mindset plays a major role in career success. Many women struggle with imposter syndrome, perfectionism, or self-doubt, which hold them back from seizing opportunities.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Believing that you must be 100% qualified before applying for a job or promotion.
• Avoiding risk for fear of failure.
• Overanalysing mistakes instead of moving forward.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Adopt a growth mindset—mistakes are learning experiences, not failures.
• Stop waiting for perfection and take bold actions.
• Develop confidence by focusing on strengths, not weaknesses.

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4. How You Brand & Market Yourself

Women often assume that their work will speak for itself, but in reality, personal branding and visibility are essential for career growth.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Not networking because it feels “fake” or transactional.
• Failing to articulate a clear personal brand.
• Underestimating the importance of social media and professional visibility.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Build a strong personal brand by identifying what sets you apart.
• Cultivate relationships with mentors and sponsors.
• Use LinkedIn and other platforms to showcase your expertise.

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5. How You Sound

The way women communicate affects how they are perceived in the workplace. Women tend to use softer language, which can diminish their authority.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Apologizing unnecessarily (“Sorry, can I ask a question?”).
• Using fillers like “just” or “I think” (e.g., “I just wanted to say…”).
• Ending statements with an upward inflection, making them sound like questions.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Speak with confidence and clarity—drop unnecessary qualifiers.
• Replace “I’m sorry” with “Thank you for your patience” when appropriate.
• Practice assertive communication without sounding aggressive.

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6. How You Look

First impressions matter, and while looks shouldn’t dictate career success, how a woman presents herself can influence how she is perceived.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Dressing too casually or not dressing for the job you want.
• Wearing excessive accessories or fragrances that distract rather than enhance.
• Ignoring body language—poor posture or avoiding eye contact can weaken authority.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Dress strategically and professionally for leadership roles.
• Maintain strong body language—good posture, firm handshake, direct eye contact.
• Avoid extreme trends and focus on a polished, professional look.

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7. How You Respond

Women are often expected to be people-pleasers, which can lead to difficulty setting boundaries and saying no.

🔹 Common Mistakes:

• Taking on too many tasks out of guilt or obligation.
• Being afraid to say no, even when overburdened.
• Avoiding confrontation instead of addressing conflicts directly.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Set clear boundaries and prioritize high-impact tasks.
• Say no without over-explaining. An example could be “I can’t take this on right now” which is enough.
• Address workplace conflicts professionally and assertively.

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Why Women Should Read This Book & Its Benefits

1. Identifies Hidden Career Obstacles – Many women don’t realize how ingrained behaviours from childhood affect their professional lives. This book helps bring awareness to these habits.
2. Provides Clear, Actionable Strategies – Instead of vague advice, Frankel offers step-by-step solutions to change self-sabotaging behaviours.
3. Helps Develop Executive Presence – Women learn how to project confidence, authority, and leadership skills essential for career growth.
4. Boosts Salary Negotiation & Career Advancement – Encourages women to ask for raises and promotions, ensuring they don’t settle for less.
5. Encourages Self-Advocacy – Empowers women to take control of their careers rather than waiting for opportunities.
6. Supports Women at Any Career Stage – Whether just starting out or aiming for executive roles, the insights apply at all levels.

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Final Thoughts

Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office is a game-changer for women who want to break past invisible barriers and claim their place at the leadership table. By identifying and correcting self-sabotaging behaviours, women can gain confidence, earn respect, and accelerate their careers.