It’s no secret that men outnumber women in the workforce, especially when it comes to top-level executive positions. However, that has not stopped the many of women that have contributed to increasing the number of females in powerful positions

The truth is glass ceilings are fading away in 2011. Many women such as Ursula Burns and Ellen Kullman are advancing in their respective fields and companies despite the threat of hindrances. After reading all of their inspiring stories, a common trend surfaced throughout them all: strategy and determination. Despite the many no’s and the various doors that we’re slammed in their faces, they never stopped believing in their potential.

Women have more at stake when it comes to balancing it all. If work is taking up a lot of time, chances are the home life structure is suffering. A way to counter this is to first and foremost have a strong support system that will not only support you, but help you to stay accountable for every aspect in your life. Secondly, a strategic, time-oriented game plan is essential. Use various tactics to ensure that every aspect in your life is receiving adequate attention.

Whether you’re already working at a job you like or just starting your climb up the corporate ladder, here are some tips and strategies you can use to take your career further and increase your earning potential.

Do a self-assessment

If you want to advance, be sure that you know firsthand why you should be considered. Assess yourself thoroughly, including strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to ensure that you know what highlights to emphasize and which lowlights to improve on. Also, be sure to gather advice from others on ways you can evaluate and modify each area.

Organize yourself and your space

Most professionals spend more time at work then at home anyway. Why not make your work space as clean and welcoming as your home? Clean areas help to produce better work. Be sure to get rid of old bulletins, files, emails and trash that is no longer relevant. Also, invest in cabinets and sorters that will help you to look and feel more professional.

Know when to say NO!

Many women have various responsibilities outside of the workplace. However, they have a goal to advance within their career field. As a result, they may sign up for that extra committee chair position or volunteer to run out for coffee for the President. That is great, but it requires a lot of your time if you invest too much into it. Focus on completing your assigned tasks to perfection and then see what else needs immediate attention.

Invest in quality time with your supervisor

The more your supervisor knows about your goals, the more they can help guide you towards successful career endeavors. Let them know constantly that you are interested by connecting with them both inside and outside of the office. Take them to lunch, ask them what networking organizations they are in, and show genuine interest in their career journey.

Master the art of Networking

When attending professional events, be sure consider the following: know the audience, what you plan to say and how you can connect with others for potential partnerships.

Also, think about your unique selling strategy: What about you is so unique that someone else should want to invest? Are you knowledge in an unpopular software program? If so, sell that. If not, look into what is on the rise in your respective industry and educate yourself on it.