Women in Business: Leadership Lessons to Take Into 2025
January 7, 2025 Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce
As we move forward in 2025, women in business face both incredible opportunities and unique challenges. Navigating leadership means utilizing the power of networks, setting boundaries, offering your distinct perspective, and seeking out mentorship that supports your growth.
During the final Women’s Network event of 2024, two influential leaders—Susan Loconto Penta, outgoing Board Chair and Co-Founder of MIDIOR Consulting, and Caitlin Dodge, incoming Board Chair and CEO of Argus—shared their experiences, insights, and advice for women aiming to lead with intention in the years to come.
Here are four key takeaways that you can bring into the new year:
1. Build the Right Connections: Networking That Matters
Networking is often considered one of the most essential tools for career advancement, but it’s more than exchanging business cards—it’s about becoming a connector.
Susan Loconto Penta emphasized the deeper value of building meaningful relationships:
“If you can connect, you become the glue for your community.”
By building genuine connections, you not only grow your network but also create opportunities for others to prosper alongside you. In 2025, focus on quality over quantity when networking. Look for connections that align with your values, goals, and vision.
2. Say ‘No’ When You Can’t Show Up Fully
Women in business often feel pressure to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity, fearing they’ll miss out. But the truth is, overcommitting can hold you back from achieving excellence.
Caitlin Dodge emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing focus. When stretching yourself too thin, she warns:
“You can be good at a lot of things and not great.”
Saying no to opportunities that don’t align with your goals creates space to show up fully for what matters most. As you step into the new year, get comfortable turning down things that don’t allow you to give your best.
3. Embrace Your Unique Perspective
Diverse perspectives are critical for innovation, leadership, and problem-solving. Caitlin reflected on the value of differing opinions, reminding us that good leadership often comes from listening and engaging thoughtfully with others.
“Having different opinions is good. Solving conflicts is a great way to leadership.”
Leaders who embrace challenges—rather than avoid them—build stronger teams and more sustainable solutions. As you climb the leadership ladder, lean into your perspective and encourage others to share theirs.
4. Powerful Mentorships: The Quiet Force Behind Growth
When an audience member asked about finding mentors, both Caitlin and Susan shared thoughtful perspectives that challenge how we traditionally view mentorship.
Caitlin pointed out that mentors aren’t always formal or obvious. Often, you look back and realize the people who challenged you the most—those who pushed you out of your comfort zone—were the ones who shaped your growth.
Susan added that mentorship doesn’t just apply to career development; it’s about finding people who guide you in both personal and professional areas of life. The key? Find someone you respect and whose advice you truly value. Without that mutual alignment, the mentorship won’t be effective.
Going into 2025, remain open to mentorship in all its forms. Whether it’s a trusted colleague, a past manager, or someone you admire from afar, mentors can provide guidance, perspective, and accountability as you step into new opportunities.
Leadership for the Future: A Passing of the Torch
As the Women’s Network wrapped up its 30th anniversary, the event highlighted not just the progress of the past but the leadership shaping the future.
Susan Loconto Penta, an accomplished engineer, entrepreneur, and educator, reflected on her time as Board Chair of Women’s Network:
“It’s been a privilege and a pleasure.”
Looking ahead, Caitlin Dodge, who steps in as the incoming Board Chair, brings a visionary approach to leadership as the CEO of Argus. Her advice to women in business—to prioritize, embrace challenges, and lead with intention—sets a strong foundation for the Women’s Network’s next chapter.
Lead Boldly in 2025
While women have made significant strides in leadership, these lessons are essential for emerging leaders looking to solidify their presence and impact:
- Build meaningful connections that empower your community.
- Learn the power of saying no to prioritize excellence.
- Share and value diverse perspectives—including your own.
- Cultivate mentorship that helps you grow personally and professionally.
Whether you’re early in your career, growing as a leader, or already leading at the top, these tools will help you navigate challenges, drive meaningful change, and lead with intention.
Here’s to the next chapter of women’s leadership—powered by connection, clarity, and confidence.
Together, we’ll make Greater Boston (and beyond) the best place for women to live, work, and lead.
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