Mentoring, Support Groups For Women More Prevalent

Kathleen Bands, RBSM, vice president of My Cleaning Services, Inc.

How have you seen the industry change for women since you started?

Over the last 10 years, there have definitely been more women entering the BSC industry, which I feel helps balance the mentality overall. Because there are more women in the field, men began to shift their thinking relating their co-workers to their family members and female friends, which brings another level of respect to the workplace. I feel that there are still unfair advantages for men in our industry that women will never be able to obtain, however, women are defining their own unique ways to compete. Often we find that people want to work with us because we are women-owned. People feel that whether they are a client or an employee, there will be a higher level of care.

I have also seen a shift from competition to collaboration. At BSCAI, there are not that many women business owners, but the few that we have in our organization have become some of my closest friends. Being able to connect with someone who has your exact challenges, goals, and passion for the industry can help you in some of your most critical times.

What advice would you give a young woman starting out in the field?

Being true to yourself is one of the hardest things to accomplish, and one of the most important keys to success. You will face challenges every step of the way, but you will earn more respect by knowing your value. Have confidence that you belong in your role, or a higher position, because you have the dedication and skills to execute your responsibilities extremely well. Treat people with respect, kindness, and professionalism and it will be met with the same attitude. You should also lean on great mentors to help guide who you want to become, amidst everyone else’s opinions.

Sita E. Morantz, president and chief human resources and administrative officer, Marsden Holding, LLC

How have you seen the industry change for women since you started?

I started in the industry in 2001 when I joined Marsden Holding as its director of human resources. I have enjoyed many opportunities for advancement at Marsden that have brought me to the role of president and chief human resources and administrative officer today. I consider myself lucky to have landed in a company with a tone from the very top of our organization that is supportive and welcoming of women in management and leadership. 

Outside of Marsden, I have seen much more activity in our industry in recent years with the formation of women’s mentoring, peer, professional and support groups, and I certainly see more women in leadership and ownership roles today than when I started. At Marsden, we have been diligent about non-discrimination and harassment of women in the workplace and this diligence has hopefully given Marsden women a safe, comfortable place to work and progress in their careers.

What advice would you give a young woman starting out in the field?

I would advise young women starting out in our field or any field to carefully select a company that demonstrates it values all individuals and creates opportunities for everyone to progress in their careers, limited only by their own abilities and desires. Bring to that company all that you have to offer and get involved in industry and professional organizations to continue your growth and development. Choose to work where women are valued and encouraged to step forward equal to all others. I would say, “Speak out and speak up for yourself, be unafraid to make your career ambitions known and work hard to make it happen.” Finally, I would say to temper your ambition by remembering to align with the needs of the company for which you work. It doesn’t work when it is “all about me” — it needs to be balanced with “all about us.”

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How BSC Industry Has Changed For Women