What does it take to succeed in corporate America? In her 30-year media career at HBO, CNBC and HGTV, Susan Packard learned some of the secrets—and the unique ways women must leverage them. “I had to learn how to express my competitive spirit in a way that maintained my likeability,” she explains. “For women, this is tricky because there needs to be a certain finesse to assertive behaviors, or ‘leaning in,’ if we want to foster collegiality.”
Published earlier this year, Packard’s book, New Rules of the Game, offers the broad strategy of gamesmanship: a strategic way of thinking, a set of behaviors and an attitude—a way to compete and win without sacrificing likeability. So what are the “rules,” according to Packard?
- Conditioning—how to go from good to great;
- Composure—a calm and confident presence;
- Playing offense—serving on the front lines and asking—or fighting—for what you need;
- Brinksmanship strategies—the skill of artful negotiations;
- Fan clubs—the work we do to gain team support;
- Practice, practice, practice—good execution developed through practice;
- Uniform requirements—yes, how we dress still matters;
- Good sportsmanship—grace attracts others to want to work with you;
- Grit—mental toughness, the warrior within; and
- Team play—managing the home team, the work team and the balance between.
On December 1, 2015, a number of business leaders will reflect on these strategies and more at iBi’s third annual Women of Influence Forum at the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino. Now in its third year, the event has evolved to include a breakfast panel discussion, group breakout sessions and a keynote luncheon by Peoria native Sue Bettman, executive vice president and chief compliance officer at RR Donnelley. Join us as we explore this year’s theme, Playing to Win: How a competitive spirit can advance your life and career. Seating is limited—register today at peoriamagazines.com/events. iBi
