Questions to Lelia Hagood, CEO - The Humanity Group

To celebrate International Women’s Day & Women’s History Month, Krishnan asked a few questions to Lelia Hagood, CEO - The Humanity Group 

What does IWD mean to you? 

International Women's Month is a time of reflection on the contributions that women made before me and to recognize the women I admire from a distance then celebrate those with whom I have /had a professional working relationship with to let them know I appreciate and support them not only in March but every day of the year. 

Why haven't we achieved equality, despite legislation in place regarding pay?   

In my opinion until we have more female leaders on the local, state and federal elected positions, pay equality will continue to be an issue. I'm hopeful that the millennials will continue to push the agenda.

How would you advise young women leaders on how to build confidence in their ability as a manager and leader? 

It's great to have confidence but not to be arrogant in their role and for them to keep in mind that they can learn from baby boomers and individuals younger than them. To always treat everyone with respect regardless of their position. 

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? 

Develop keen listening skills that will make her/them more successful in every area of their life. Maintain networking relationships from all phases of their life.

What initiatives should companies invest in to promote women in leadership? 

Before searching outside of the company to look deep within the organization for women who have possibly been overlooked for promotions who didn't raise their hand. 

Do women in our sector have a hard time getting promoted? 

Yes.  In my opinion it's due to the fact that some women don't network or ask male colleagues for the position that they want. Be authentic with yourself and if you don't play golf ...it's okay. 

If you could choose one recommendation for HR leaders to help promote women in the workplace, what would it be? 

Respect conversations on hard topics that might be in the headspace of some leaders... like women are emotional ...too aggressive

Is there a particular leader you look up to? 

Mellody Hobson, CEO Ariel Investments is my mentor in my head...lol. I would listen to her on the news and the advice she would give on financial literacy made me want to learn more about personal finances.  Which shaped my opinion on how I view money and the importance of having and maintaining a healthy financial attitude.  In 2020 thanks to what I had put in place several years ago made it easier for me during the pandemic and I could focus on developing other skills. 

What advice would you give your younger self? 

What I would say to my younger self... the grass is not always greener and be careful of who you take career advice from especially from a peer who might be secretly trying to sabotage your journey.  I regret not asking for mentorship earlier in my career.