Run To Win: Lessons in Leadership for Women Changing the World

Shriock, president of Emily’s List since 2010, and Reynolds, vice president of communications of Emily’s List, collaborate to help offer advice and encouragement for women aspiring to political careers. They detail what a potential candidate should ask themselves before starting out: Are they ready? What do they have to offer? Is there as a societal problem they want to resolve? Could they successfully raise money, a key skill for every candidate? The authors shepherd candidates covering this unfamiliar terrain. In addition to listing the practical questions, Shriock and Reynolds provide moral support through vignettes from their own experience and from the experience of other women office-holders, including a foreword by politician Kamala Harris. The authors also observe that women candidates no longer experience as many gendered expectations as before. However, that doesn’t mean the path to a political career will be easy. Helpfully, the authors share advice on navigating the press, which can be challenging for new and longtime politicians alike. They also highlight what makes a successful politician: empathy for those in need. Profiles of politicians, such as congresswoman Lois Frankel, give additional insight.