If you had a collective of Super Women by your side, what help would you ask for? This was the question that Are Media’s Jane Huxley asked more than 800 incredible attendees at B&T’s Women in Media awards in August this year.
Last week on B&T’s Superwomen Series, we spoke with Women In Media Project Manager winner, Melanie Aslanidis, Woman of the Year, Natalie Taylor, Entrepreneur winner Haley McDonald and number four on the Women In Media Power List, Rose Herceg, about finding your voice, breaking free from imposter syndrome and overcoming fear paralysis. To view last week’s instalment click here.
The women of the Australian media, marketing and advertising spoke out loudly, sharing their biggest fears and doubts. So, now, in partnership with Are Media, B&T has called upon our legion of superwomen – that’s our winners and the Women in Media Power List inductees – to guide this generation of women through some of the industry’s most consistent problems.
This week, we tackle confidence with Client Services winner Belinda Drew and #30 on the Women In Media Power List, Jo McAlister.
How do I stop the voice in my head that tells me I am not enough?
Belinda Drew, Chief Client Officer, Droga5 ANZ
I think when you’re ambitious you’re always questioning whether you’re enough – and I think that’s a good thing. When that voice creeps in I remind myself of how hard I’ve worked, everything I’ve worked through and the people who believe in me. I try to treat myself with the same kindness I’d offer anyone in my team.
Jo McAlister, CEO, Initiative
The voice in my head can be at times exhausting. SHE is often loud, relentless, and always ready to stir the pot. But to maintain my sanity, I’ve learned how to keep her in check. When she starts in with the negative inner monologue, I counter with positive self-talk, maintain focus on what’s real, and find moments of stillness (my version of an adult timeout). I’ve realised the best way to quieten that inner critic is to simply stop giving her the spotlight.
How do I feel more confident in saying that I’m not ok?
Belinda Drew, Chief Client Officer, Droga5 ANZ
Being open and honest with clients and colleagues builds real connection. Trust grows when people see the human side of you — and that’s what makes relationships stronger. Honesty is always the best policy.
Jo McAlister, CEO, Initiative
I’ve learned that confidence in saying “I’m not ok” comes from knowing vulnerability isn’t weakness. It took me a little bit to get use too in my early years of managing a team. I pride myself on being open and honest, and I’m lucky to have a trusted inner circle where real, candid conversations happen. It’s not always easy to drop your protection barrier, but I’ve realised that showing up authentically gives others permission to do the same and that creates real connection.
Why do I still struggle to believe in myself?
Belinda Drew, Chief Client Officer, Droga5 ANZ
The older I get, the less I care about the things that don’t matter. With aged wisdom, perspective is sharpened. I’m more confident now then I’ve ever been purely because I know what matters.
Jo McAlister, CEO, Initiative
Imposter syndrome has a sneaky way of showing up uninvited, no matter how much experience or success you’ve had. Belief in yourself must be a constant practice like exercise or creating a habit. I make sure I recognise the wins (big and small) and the impact I have made. I also celebrate when things go my way, even if it’s with a simple acknowledgement. Believing in yourself takes intention and repetition, especially on the days that you feel like you are struggling.
More from the Superwomen Series:
