The potential for advancement available in the food industry is one of the most exciting parts of the sector, said WFF CEO and President Hattie Hill. In this interview, Hill discusses the history of WFF as well as the evolving mission of the organization.
If you're aiming for a spot on a corporate board, it's important to think about what kind of experience you bring to the table and how you can showcase your value, says Lauren Zalaznick, who is a director at two public companies. Also, reach out to your network of personal contacts, and look for ways to demonstrate your curiosity.
Redefine fear of failing to push past those feelings, explains career coach Susan Peppercorn, as fear is all in your mind. Create a "fear list" to jot down the fears that may be holding you back and then set "approach goals" to change your mindset about how to more constructively view and defeat those fears.
Becoming comfortable with different business functions and being willing to take on risk can aid your career as you head for the C-suite, experts say. Building a strong succession pipeline at your current level is vital, says Carol Lavin Bernick, CEO of Polished Nickel Capital Management and former executive chairman of Alberto-Culver, which was sold to Unilever in 2011.
Promote your personal brand by contributing articles or doing speaking engagements, as this will help spark networking opportunities, explains Janice Lopez. Coupling this strategy with social networking is an effective way to nurture and build your network, Lopez suggests.
The recession, recovery and growing wealth inequality have fueled changes in the way consumers shop for food, according to The Hartman Group's recent report on low-income and value-oriented shoppers. Food sellers can better serve these customers by taking time to understand the way they plan, shop and dine, writes Laurie Demeritt.
The pay gap tends to shrink when workers are aware of how their compensation compares with that of their colleagues, economic research shows. "For the first time we are able to document, that pay-transparency really works," wrote Morten Bennedsen, economics professor at INSEAD.
Companies often focus on diversity goals through numbers or metrics, but a more effective way to view diversity is through impact by ensuring meaningful work experiences and collaboration for diverse hires, writes Serenity Gibbons. By giving employees of varied races, genders and ethnicities active influence in decision-making, companies can reach the full potential of diverse hiring practices.
Constellation Brands says that over the next 10 years, it will invest in $100 million in alcoholic beverage startups founded by women. The first two companies to receive funding are Vivify Beverages, which makes hard soda, and bottled-cocktail provider Austin Cocktails.
