Queen Esther gives women in business a sage’s example

Several years ago, I interviewed Connie Glaser (connieglaser.com), co-author of “What Queen Esther Knew: Business Strategies from a Biblical Sage.” The authors say that “Queen Esther provides an impressive role model for women today.” They describe her as smart, savvy and strategic.

The authors also provide  examples of women  in key organizations today who  practice  strategies Queen Esther provided.

The interview and book left a lasting impression on me. It is a true rags-to-riches story of an orphan girl who became the Queen of Persia and saved her people. Queen Esther’s example provides us with key elements of what women need to succeed in today’s world. Some of the success points I gleaned from Queen Esther’s behavior:

•            The importance of networking and doing your research.

•            The impact of working with mentors.

•            The necessity of strategizing and taking risks.

•            The power of persuasion and good communication skills.

•            The awareness of the right timing and using strategies that will create timing.

This is a great woman leader and survivor. Queen Esther became a leader on her own terms. She did not have the  scientific research and training that we have today. She used her instincts and drive and determination to accomplish her goals.

I can relate to the story of Queen Esther. Her story gave me the validation for my own work as an entrepreneur where I strategize success by focusing on reality, network with business professionals, enlist help from mentors and combine it with my intuition and faith. Most importantly, I have learned to be ready when the opportunity presents itself.

Two reviews of “What Queen Esther Knew” on Amazon.com really sum it up for me. “You can think of it as an operational guide for character, influence, elegance and purpose” writes one Amazon customer.

In the second one Pam Silvers writes, “Esther was strategic and understood the importance of mapping out her plan of attack. She was an astute communicator who chose her words carefully and deliberately. She understood the subtleties of ‘palace protocol’ and how to penetrate the inner circles of power. I found it  fascinating to discover the contemporary relevance of this ancient tale.”

I agree with Pam. The lessons I learned from Queen Esther’s success are not only relevant but necessary to succeed in today’s world.

Patricia Raskin, president of Raskin Resources Productions Inc., is an award-winning radio producer and Rhode Island business owner. She is the host of “The Patricia Raskin” show, and a radio and podcast coach. She is a board member of Temple Emanu-El in Providence.