ReSisters’ Guide to Owning Your Space

On January 25, 2020, AUP’s Director of Academic Advising, Careers and Experiential Learning, Darcee Caron, spoke to ReSisters, a student club at AUP that promotes intersectional feminism and aims to provide a space where all people are welcome to share their experiences, explore feminist concepts and resist normative discourses.

Caron talked club members through topics such as imposter syndrome, body language and how to command space in the workplace. Featuring an encouraging introduction from President Celeste Schenck, “Women in the Workplace” generated a safe space for attendees to share doubts, ask questions and receive valuable tips about how to own one’s space in the professional world.

This guide sums up some of the advice and wisdom discussed at the event, for readers to embrace in future endeavors. 

#1 Always apply!

Darcee says: “Job qualifications are wish lists, not prerequisites!”

Job descriptions are not set in stone, so do not let feeling underqualified on paper set you back from applying to a job. Employers are looking to hire people who will grow and bring their unique assets to the table, not who will check every box on paper.

#2 Believe in your own opinions and ideas – and voice them!

Darcee says: “Remember: if you’ve been invited to a meeting, you are there for a reason – and you deserve to sit at that table.”

Feeling confident that your thoughts are valid and worthy can be challenging. Overcoming this starts with verbalizing your opinions and ideas in spite of self-doubt. You have a right and reason to contribute to the space you occupy. Some helpful phrases to interject with are:

1. “I would offer that…”
2. “My thoughts on this issue are…”
3. “I have a different point of view…”

#3: Build a circle (like ReSisters!)

Seeking empowerment is not a solo task. Find your tribe of friends or colleagues in the workplace whom you can go to for encouragement and comfort. Look out for those who can be mentors to you, perhaps people at a later stage in their career, and ask them if they can take on that role. The workplace should not be a place in which you feel isolated.

#4: Ask questions – and NEVER be sorry!

It’s OK not to know everything; being afraid to show that might actually hinder your growth. Try talking out your questions and concerns with someone who can offer interpersonal guidance if you need a boost. Never apologize for your presence and contributions, even if there is an inconvenience. If you find yourself overusing the term “sorry,” try replacing it with “thank you” instead.

#5: EMBODY your CONFIDENCE!

Darcee says: “You have seven seconds to make a first impression – 10% is what you say and 90% is what you do.”

Whether in an interview, meeting or presentation, you should command your physical space and emanate confidence through body language. This not only makes for good impressions and presentation skills, but also has a positive impact on your psychology.