Financial Advice For Women, From Women, On International Women’s Day

Kate Pitts
Associate Vice President, Client Experience & Relationships

I came into the Finance industry with a degree in Marketing, so it was a bit intimidating at first, as I learned the ins and outs of it. But I was really fortunate to find two incredible female colleagues and mentors during those early years of my career. They created a safe space to ask questions and also guided me toward opportunities that I otherwise might not have pursued for myself.  

That early support really helped equip me to thrive in this industry, and I think the universal lesson there is how mentorship and support can transform your financial aptitude. That’s true for everyone, but especially for women who for generations were stereotyped as not being great with finances. We all should be leaning in to help ourselves and our colleagues to progress and move forward. 

Leisl L. Langevin, CFP®, CDFA®
Senior Vice President & Financial Advisor 

Many of my female clients share that they have anxiety about finances, but what I’ve found both in my professional and personal relationships is that by elevating each other, women can overcome self-doubt.  

For years, social conditioning has reinforced the notion that women are not as skilled in financial matters. Women have internalized that idea, which has created a really common fear of judgment and failure in the financial realm, and that in turn can discourage them from reaching their full potential for building wealth and achieving the big financial goals they have for themselves. 

The key to overcoming that vicious cycle is to build your knowledge so you can build your confidence, and then trust in your abilities. Give yourself permission to make financial literacy a priority now, no matter your age or current knowledge. Then find a trustworthy mentor, take classes, and read books by female finance experts. Knowledge alleviates fear. 

Holly Wanegar, CFP®
Associate Vice President & Wealth Advisor

I have a lot of gratitude for the mentors and leaders of all genders in my life who’ve supported my journey to thrive in this male-dominated field. I’ve been fortunate to receive a ton of support right here at WHZ, not only from my female coworkers but also from my male colleagues and the firm’s partners. They all provided the support and mentorship I needed to pursue becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and my career here has grown tremendously as a result. 

I recently attended a conference focused on women in Finance where the theme was “Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Authentic” – and I think that’s a great mantra for helping women to embrace being themselves without fear of judgment. Even when it comes to finances, it comes down to living purposefully and passionately instead of waiting for the right moment – seize the day. 

If you have financial acumen, pay it forward by helping someone who doesn’t yet. Form or join groups focused on women’s financial topics. Align yourself with female financial advisors who actively listen to understand your whole life picture. Their expertise combined with shared experiences as women can really help to build rapport and illuminate new perspectives for you.