Sitting at a boardroom of 12, perhaps 2 of the seats are filled with women. Men and women executives need the same things to obtain a seat at that table: developmental programs, a strong network of peers and mentors. A SEAT AT THE TABLE provides access to all three of these needs, focusing on women since there are not traditionally the same opportunities for women as men.

Research shows that:
 -    Most women are dissatisfied with their ability to network and feel excluded from informal networks that provide access to influential clients and colleagues.
 -    The lack of mentoring opportunities is believed to be the leading barrier to women’s advancement.

In order to advance, women need new and creative opportunities to expand their base of influence and to gain the confidence and poise needed for success.

A SEAT AT THE TABLE is a 9-session program with 12-15 senior level executive peers per class.  Each session is a full day focusing on a specific competency, each session building on the previous. Mentors can be chosen from The Link ‘Board of Mentors’ or from within the sponsor company as a support for the executive.

Our program is created around the belief that leadership includes a wide range of qualities, behaviors, skills and attributes. In its essence there are 2 components: 

• Leading Yourself: knowing and leading from one's strengths, interpretation of contexts and situations, being authentic and congruent.
• Leading  Others: power from influencing, creating and managing change, negotiating effectively and resolving conflict.

The Link is working with a great team of people to conduct the nine sessions of the program. They are smart, professional, understand the nuances of the business world and are considered ‘Best in Class’. This is a brain trust that the participants can use as a resource thoughout the 9 sessions.

A SEAT AT THE TABLE will enable women to have the same opportunities as businessmen to connect and work with other women leaders. Our ‘Board of Mentors’ is an incredible group of the most powerful, successful and generous women in Portland and Seattle. Our Portland Board includes:

MISSION
> To provide a comprehensive program where competencies are enhanced to achieve full potential in the workplace.
> To create an environment of support and sharing among executive women.

OBJECTIVES
> To strengthen competencies for thinking and communicating strategically at the highest levels.
> To understand the nuances of creating presence.
> To provide access to and guidance for a productive mentor/mentee relationship.
> To provide a network of peers.

ELIGIBLE WOMEN
> 5–15 years of professional experience
> High potential women targeted for top leadership positions
> Independent business owners with at least 3 years as CEO

PROGRAM FRAMEWORK**
> 9 session program
> Intensive weekend kick-off, 1 day per month for 7 months thereafter
> Up to 12 qualified senior level executives
> 1 woman per company/department
> Assessment survey incorporating the attendee’s manager, peers and associates thoughts on corporate culture and expectations
> 1:1 consultation
> Access to mentors from The Link For Women 'Board of Mentors' or the sponsor company
> Monthly assignments designed to apply session learnings in the workplace immediately
> Free monthly events presented by The Link For Women
**Customized corporate programs available