The Shero Playbook: WIFI Teaches Level Up Skills at the CFI-FCICA Convention
By: Maddie Rollins, FCIF & WIFI communications coordinator
Who wants to level up? Women in flooring, that’s who! On October 2nd, 2024, the non-profit Women In the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI) hosted “The Shero Playbook: The BIG Ask for Advancement”, an inspiring panel discussion at the CFI + FCICA convention in Orlando, at the beautiful Rosen Shingle Creek resort! The discussion featured panelists Leslie Del Pozo, VP of marketing and communications for QEP Co Inc, Jen Zurn, project manager for CFI - Certified Flooring Installers, Kelly Zimmerman, president of Flooring Solutions, Inc., and Allana McInnis, sr. brand specialist at Mohawk Flooring. Beth Miller, managing editor for Floor Trends & Installation led the session as the moderator. Together, they shared their experiences and insights on key topics related to career advancement including positioning oneself in decision-making, asking for professional support, and advocating for oneself in the workplace. There was an impressive turnout of women and men in the flooring and installation industry whose lively participation brought great insights to the table!
Positioning Yourself to be Included in Decision Making
Miller opened the first topic by posing a question, “What are some of the barriers that women experience when it comes to being a part of the decision-making process?” Attendees shared that it can be challenging to place yourself in those positions, especially when you may be the only woman in the room. Zurn’s strategy to overcome this obstacle is to build strong relationships and foster trust with people in your organization. “Be confident and clearly articulate ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Ask thoughtful questions and be prepared to offer solutions.” Zimmerman added that “demonstrating problem solving skills can open more opportunities to be included in decision making”. She added, “people want problem solvers at the table.”
Asking for Professional Support
The conversation then shifted to the importance of asking for professional support and strategies for doing so effectively. Whether it's additional education, exposure, mentorship, or more team members, asking for help can be challenging. One audience member shared her fear of appearing weak when reaching out for support—something many of us can relate to. Del Pozo posed a solution; “the key is to ask for help before you need it. Don’t wait until you are already overwhelmed to ask for support.” Del Pozo and Zimmerman both provided strategies for asking for support. You must present your case, come with detailed information, and pose solutions. McInnis, who is currently pursuing a graduate degree, emphasized the importance of seeking further education. She shared, “By working toward my MBA, I’ve been able to learn from people outside our industry, find ways to improve our business processes, and build more professional relationships.”
Advocating for Personal Advancement
On the final topic, Miller asked the panelists to share advice for advocating for yourself in your career. Zimmerman shared a personal example of one way she
advocated for a raise successfully. At the time, she had been working for a company for over 5 years and had recently earned her degree in accounting. She wanted to stay with that company but knew her earning potential was higher than what she was being paid. She approached her boss with three potential solutions, which ended up netting her the increase she needed to stay with her employer. Her story was a great example of exactly how to advocate for what you want!
This discussion clearly articulated challenges women face in the workplace and tactical solutions to advance professional growth and support. Learn more and find WIFI on the road here!