July 27, 2015

What is wrong with Kay Burley?

During the weekend a Facebook friend of mine posted a video of an awkward and quite frankly cringe worthy interview between controversial Sky News Anchor Kay Burley and Labour MP Dawn Butler. Kay seemed to be on the offensive as if she was trying to prove something and it ended with Dawn laughing and asking Burley “What’s wrong with you Kay?!”

When you watch the interview it almost makes you feel a bit sorry for Kay because it comes across as if she is desperately trying to prove that she is a serious journalist who cannot be manipulated by a politician; when in fact this behaviour made her misunderstand Dawn Butler who had to repeat herself three times when answering a particular question. I find it quite surprising that an experienced journalist like Kay who has over 27 years’ experience as a presenter and has hosted more hours of live television than any other news presenter would behave like this. As a senior woman in a predominantly male led industry (media) Kay is a role model for many young girls who want to one day fill her shoes. I feel she sets a bad example by showing herself to be overly aggressive, over compensating and very insecure.

Sadly there are many professional women like Kay who feel pressure to behave in an aggressive way to ‘keep up with their male colleagues’ or to protect their position especially when they are surrounded by lots of men in powerful positions. But does it have to be this way? In my opinion, no. Here is what I think any woman who holds an influential position at work should remember.

Confidence

You need to believe in your ability to do your job and that you deserve to be in your position-which is a privilege. I am baffled when I see so many women like Kay who have 20+ years’ experience in their sector who deep down lack confidence. Why do you feel that you still have to prove yourself? Let your back catalogue and work speak for itself. When you speak to people whether it’s an employee, client or interviewee-speak to them with grace.

Focus

During this particular interview Kay ended up looking silly because she wasn’t focused on interviewing her guest but more concerned with trying to trip her up or make a point. If she had listened to what Dawn was saying she would not have had to repeat herself three times. Focus on the task at hand and what your role is within your organisation. Don’t worry about impressing others or trying to prove you are just as tough as the men!

Not everyone is the enemy

Take the chip off your shoulder and relax-not everyone is the ‘enemy’ or here to trick or deceive you. Try and see the best in people and give them the benefit of the doubt until they prove otherwise.

Responsibility

If you are blessed enough to hold a position of great power and responsibility then whether you like it or not you are a role model to many people who one day want to do what you do for a living. Remember the saying ‘With great power, comes great responsibility’. Try and do better every day, set the tone and lead by example

Embrace your femininity

Sometimes I hear so many of the women I work with say that they are embarrassed by their charm, grace or feminine traits at work. See this as a positive ladies, this is what makes us so special and damn good at our jobs! You don’t have to wear a turtle neck to work every day or not show any emotion or passion-these are all great qualities to have and the right employer will value this.

To watch the interview with Kay Burley and Dawn Butler click here

Vanessa Sanyauke

Founder, Girls Talk London

Follow Vanessa on @vanessasanyauke 

Photo Credit Southbanksteve 2009