The strength of women is a key element in the strength of Brazilian agribusiness

By Ana Cristina Colla, Operations Director at ADAMA Brasil

08.11.2018 | 21:59 (UTC -3)

To begin any analysis or approach to the issue, it is an indisputable fact that women in the 21st century increasingly exert influence and protagonism in all the environments in which they operate. Despite all the prejudgments in which we are still placed, including ourselves, the growth of our participation in the job market and, especially, in Brazilian agribusiness, is notable, relevant, and goes beyond a numerical issue.

In a sector traditionally led, led and associated with men, there are certain challenges that must be taken into account, but they do not need to be seen as obstacles that are impossible to overcome, after all, in the current context, competence is not a gender issue. We are witnessing a great and constant transformation in the way we project ourselves professionally and this demands a daily exercise of courage, desire for knowledge, desire to be better and the recognition of values ​​capable of reversing some stereotypes.

One of the first scenarios that we need to change is that competence and capacity can only be transmitted through a masculine figure. In fact, female and male skills are complementary in the job market. A woman who uses her femininity wisely can reap good results with this difference.

Entering the emotional area, with regard to female sensitivity, there are some myths to be overcome. The main thing is that this sensitivity is genuinely bad for the professional environment. In fact, sensitivity is yet another competitive advantage for women, as it can confer empathy, that is, the ability to put oneself in someone else's shoes, analyze behaviors and reactions. For women, this analysis of the people around them is natural and is always used, even if unconsciously. This is a very useful feature in conflict resolution, negotiations, feedback and even self-analysis.

It should be noted that, under no circumstances, should these notes represent intransigence or imbalance in professional relationships. From crop management to administrative functions, from farm management to management positions, a competent woman, confident in her qualities and aware of her challenges, joins any team to add and share the knowledge she acquires throughout her career. Based on this exercise of empathy and respect, men and women, working together, further strengthened this fundamental sector for the country's development.

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