Inclusion and Empowerment - Insights from Christine Andrea Fischer.
By Jennifer Heinen | Fashion Psychologist
This week, we delve into a crucial question: Does what we wear affect our career, opportunities, and growth? Our latest podcast episode features Christine Andrea Fischer, Senior Vice President at SAP, sharing her journey and insights on how fashion influences professional identity, leadership, and inclusivity in the workplace.
Our Guest
Christine Andrea Fischer is a Senior Vice President at SAP, with nearly two decades of experience in sales, business development, and big data analytics. She has a proven track record of driving business growth and leading global teams in the IT sector. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Christine advocates for creating more inclusive workplaces and is dedicated to empowering women in technology. Her expertise extends to orchestrating complex projects and fostering collaborative environments, making her a respected leader and mentor in the industry.
Connect with Christine on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineandreafischer/ for more insights into her professional journey.
The Role of Fashion in Professional Identity
Christine emphasises that fashion choices are integral to professional identity, especially in male-dominated sectors like IT. She notes, “As a woman in an IT organization, you need to be super careful what you want to wear and how this relates a little bit to your kind of impression what you want to give to others.” Christine highlights the shift from traditional business attire to a more flexible wardrobe post-pandemic, while still maintaining a professional image.
Balancing Professionalism and Authenticity
Finding the balance between professionalism and authenticity is crucial. Christine shares her personal experience, stressing the importance of consistency in her professional wardrobe. “I decided to stay a little bit my style, very classical, not that fashionista...really look a little bit, okay, what can I wear that it's not a little bit too much and it's not too less, that it fits to exactly my authenticity and really I'm comfortable.”
Promoting Inclusivity through Fashion
Christine discusses the challenges women face in terms of fashion and inclusivity in the workplace. She advocates for using fashion as a tool to promote inclusivity and empowerment. “Identify your unique selling points (USPs) and support them with appropriate attire. Fashion should complement your strengths, not overshadow them.”
Practical Advice for Young Professionals
For young professionals unsure about how to dress for success, Christine advises seeking feedback from colleagues and considering professional styling advice.
“Ask maybe experienced colleagues in your area. I would, in the meanwhile, ask a professional stylist, because I think that's super helpful and beneficial.”
The Future of Fashion in Business
Looking ahead, Christine envisions a future where fashion plays a supportive role in professional development. She hopes for more guidance and understanding of how fashion can empower individuals. “My hope is really that people recognize a little bit the help of Fashion More and really use this as an element for their toolbox in a way that it underlines their personality and their strengths and their skillset.”
Style My Mind Challenge
To wrap up, Christine introduces her Style My Mind challenge: “Wear one week an outfit that fits to your background from a color perspective and share your feedback receiving from others.” We encourage you to take on this challenge and share your experiences with the hashtag #StyleMyMindChallenge.
Connect with Christine on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineandreafischer/ to learn more about her work and insights.
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