What does it take to be a successful business woman in this era?
In modern times, women are involved more than ever before in business – from board meetings and
investor’s programs to taking roles in executive functions and senior leadership – yet it is still
unbalanced.
When thinking about her studies and career, Delphine dreamed of working in finance – as it would
cover
topics like mathematics, the economy and financial management – a career which may be typically
attributed to men. Always determined to be different, Delphine saw this as her way not to conform to
the
‘normal’ and express herself.
There were occasions throughout her career in finance and business where male counterparts tried to
put
Delphine in uncomfortable positions, with quips like: “You? Have you done this before?” and “This is
not
meant for you.” However, this only gave Delphine even greater motivation to succeed and prove them
wrong.
Assertive and hardworking, her ambition to become a CFO arrived quickly in Delphine’s career, however
it
did not take her long to understand that she would have to do more, take more risks and boldly speak
her
mind in order for her to be listened to and trusted.
Women in business face numerous biases – historically considered for their appearance, their beauty
and
their physique. “Why are women expected to be soft, sexy and charming while men are expected to be
strong and intelligent?” questioned Delphine.
Despite these biases and the inherent gender inequality in business, Delphine believes that the
secret
to being a successful businesswoman lies in personality. “I have always been fiercely independent,
confident and determined to succeed,” says Delphine. But most importantly, she did not want to act
like
most of her counterparts in order to lead.
“I believe we lead by example and inspire people by having empathy, integrity and curiosity,” says
Delphine.
After her successful career in finance, Delphine decided to launch her eponymous label, DELPHINE
GENIN,
where she could mix her passions for art, business, psychology, creativity and technology in one
place.
While it seemed natural for Delphine to make the progression from the finance to the creative world,
many questioned her decision, unable to understand why she would love a comfortable, senior position
in
business for an uncertain future with her own creative venture.
“I had to think for a long time what title would best represent what I wanted to achieve. I was not a
designer, and the word fashion can have negative connotations in today’s world,” says Delphine.
Fashion
Designer was not an option.
Creative Director reflects the complexities and combination of Delphine’s work. Always one to think
outside the box, this new title allowed Delphine to combine her experience and understanding of
business
with her passion for creativity and couture – with no limits as to what she can create and achieve.
Although working for yourself is not without its challenges – the days are long, with little
separation
between the work life and the personal life – the reward has no price. As a business woman in a
creative
world, Delphine has the rare opportunity and position to make people question themselves – and the
world
around them.
“Never give up, don’t take anything personally, and most importantly, don’t take no for an answer,”
says Delphine. “Believe in yourself and trust your instinct.”
#Delphine's Reflections