The evidence of empowerment created by the Ladder Down program is overwhelming.
Over the one-year course, the participants report measurable improvements: promotions to partnership, new clients, expanded professional networks, robust referral networks, firm transitions, and a universal increase in community involvement. Participants negotiated their salaries (some for the first time), developed business plans, and gained speaking and publishing opportunities.
Graduates went on to land board positions, receive origination credit and the ability to recognize and communicate their accomplishments. In addition to these “external” changes, participants saw internal changes: increased confidence at networking events, a newfound ability to resolve conflict, a commitment to prioritizing business development, and a better understanding of themselves. Every one of them benefitted from taking risks they would not otherwise have taken.
Another invaluable advantage to the Ladder Down program is a referral network of women helping other women.
Ladder Down designed the class to minimize internal competition. The participants selected represent diverse practice areas, and they quickly realized the benefit. Cross-referring started almost immediately and still continues today. The participants noted this built-in network among the program’s biggest selling points.
