The Power of Connection: Why strong support systems matter at work and beyond

As my career has evolved, one thing has become increasingly clear to me: no one succeeds alone.

Some of the most important moments in my professional journey haven’t come from formal training or job titles, but from the people around me. The women I’ve worked alongside, the support systems I’ve relied on outside of work, and the allies who have advocated when it truly mattered.

Finding strength in women at work

Forming close bonds with like‑minded women in the workplace has been invaluable. These are the people you can turn to when you need perspective, reassurance, or honest advice. The ones who understand the nuances of your role, the unspoken pressures, and the moments of self‑doubt that don’t always make it into meetings.

Research from McKinsey and Lean In[1] shows that women are just as committed to their careers as men, yet often receive less informal support, sponsorship, and advocacy. Crucially, the research also shows that when women receive the same level of support, ambition gaps disappear entirely. Confidence doesn’t appear in isolation but is built through encouragement, trust, and shared experience.

Having women at work who will challenge you, champion you, and be a sounding board makes a real difference. These relationships don’t have to be formal. Often, they’re built through everyday conversations - checking in after a tough meeting, sharing advice over coffee, or simply listening.

The support that exists beyond work

Equally important are the support systems we have outside of the workplace, whether that’s from mothers, aunties, sisters, friends, former colleagues. People who help shape your perspective, ground you, and reminded you of who you are beyond the job title.

These relationships matter more than we sometimes acknowledge. They provide perspective when work feels overwhelming and reassurance when confidence wavers. Research has shown that strong social support networks are closely linked to wellbeing, engagement, and long‑term success at work. When women feel supported both professionally and personally, they are far more likely to thrive.

Learning from leaders: the good and the bad

Like many people, I’ve learned as much from bad leadership experiences as I have from good ones. Over time, these experiences have shaped my own leadership style.

One piece of advice from a former Managing Director has always stayed with me: always be nice to people, it goes a long way. It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly powerful. Respect, kindness, and consistency cost nothing, yet they define how people experience leadership.

Leadership isn’t about authority; it’s about responsibility. It’s about creating an environment where people feel respected, supported, and able to do their best work.

The importance of genuine allies

While women supporting women is vital, progress doesn’t happen in isolation. Male allies play an important role, particularly when their advocacy is rooted in genuine respect rather than a surface‑level “diversity angle.”

The most meaningful allyship I’ve experienced has come from people who listen, who challenge bias when they see it, and who use their influence to amplify others. Effective allyship goes beyond good intentions, and it shows up through sponsorship, advocacy, and speaking up in the moments that matter most.

Inclusive cultures are built when everyone participates.

Being a role model for the next generation

As I reflect on International Women’s Day, I think increasingly about the role I want to play for future female leaders. Not by having all the answers, but by leading with authenticity, fairness, and humanity.

If I can help create an environment where women feel supported, valued, and confident to step forward, where they know they don’t have to do it alone, then that matters. Representation is important, but how we lead matters just as much.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” resonates deeply with me. When we give our time, support, kindness, and advocacy to others, we don’t lose anything, we gain stronger teams, better leaders, and more sustainable progress.

Connection isn’t a nice‑to‑have. It’s the foundation that shapes the leaders we become.

[1] https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/women-in-the-workplace