09/03/2026
I was told working for female bosses would be "tough." (Leadership Journey - 005)
It was—but not for the reasons you think.
Early in my career, I heard the stereotypes: "Female bosses are too stern." "They’re too disciplined."
Looking back over two decades later as a business owner, I realize those people weren't describing "difficulty." They were describing EXCELLENCE.
I would not be the CEO I am today without three remarkable women who refused to let me stay "average."
📍The Coach: Dolapo Adigun.
She was my first contact with leadership. Managing over 200+ clients and a team of three in the high-pressure world of deposit mobilization is no small feat. She taught me that leadership isn't about being "nice"—it’s about being a shield.
She shared her vulnerabilities and her "pitfalls" so I wouldn't have to fall into them myself. Over 20 years later, that bond remains so strong that her support helped provide the financial cushion that I needed to scale up my business.
📍The Refiner: Ronke Kuye.
She pushed me to think beyond the ordinary and master the "Lexicon of Excellence." She taught me that professionalism is a language of its own, and "beginning with the end in mind" is the only way to win. I almost quit but mum held me back and told me, “Gold needs to be refined”.
• The Strategist: T**i Osuntoki
She introduced me to the "Meeting before the Meeting." Your brand has to be top-notch infront of top executives. She treated me like the CEO of my own desk. Because of her, I never walk into a client engagement today without having already "controlled the narrative" in a dry run.
5 Secrets to Winning with High-Stakes Female Leaders.
If you want to grow under a powerful female boss, stop looking at the "sternness" and start looking at the strategy:
1. Adopt the "CEO of your Desk" Mindset: Don't wait for instructions. Own your deliverables so completely that your boss becomes your partner, not your supervisor.
2. Master the "Pre-Meeting": Never walk into a high-stakes room cold. Anticipate the questions. If you can predict 3 out of 5 questions she will ask, you have earned her trust.
3. Translate the "Pressure": High-level women often face unique market pressures. When she pushes you, she is usually preparing you for a seat at a table you haven't reached yet.
4. Listen to the "Pitfall" Stories: When she shares a personal struggle or a career mistake, it is a gift. She is giving you a shortcut she never had.
5. Build for the 20-Year Horizon: Don't jettison relationships when you move on. The boss who pushed you in your 20s might be the one who facilitates your business capital in your 40s.
Happy International Women’s Day to the mentors who did not just give me a job, but gave me a blueprint for success.
Who is the woman who shaped your career journey? Tag them below!
Oludolapo Adigun Ronke Kuye **i Osuntoki
