Jamila Rizvi does it all. A successful television presenter and commentator, and regular digital columnist for News Limited, this talented woman has just added author to her resume. Her new book, Not Just Lucky: Why women do the work but don’t take the credit, is an ‘unashamedly feminist career manifesto’ for millennial women.
The Best Newcomer in Media (2014) and one of Australia’s 100 Women of Influence (AFR, 2015) shares her thoughts about business, success and women in the C-suite.
How do you measure success?
I set my own standards for what success is and try to avoid the subjectivity of public and popular opinion the media uses to measure people.
What makes a good leader?
Being predictable. It’s not glamorous or exciting or revolutionary but providing structure, certainty and consistency for a team is critical for building trust.
Who inspires you and why?
Women who keep working hard and trying to have an impact, despite living in a world that still tells them to sit down and shut up.
One thing you would change about your profession?
The media and politics have pretty ordinary track records when it comes to the treatment of women. I’m working to change that.
Best decision you ever made?
I’m of the Sheryl Sandberg school of thought on this one. My husband Jeremy is both the best personal – and professional – decision I’ve ever made.
Biggest challenge of your career?
Figuring out what my identity was without it. After I had my son in 2015, I struggled to define myself without reference to a job.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
Don’t be afraid of hiring people who are smarter than you. You don’t need to worry about people shining brighter than you, when you can shine brightly together.
What is your favourite website?
They do hilarious critiques of red-carpet fashion without being bitchy or commenting on the women’s bodies. They play the clothes, not the girl.
What is your favourite app?
Sound Sleeper. Seriously! I downloaded it to quiet a crying newborn 2 years ago and now I can’t sleep without the white noise.
Not Just Lucky: Why women do the work but don’t take the credit by Jamila Rizvi is published by Penguin.
To find out more, visit jamilarizvi.com.au.
