#WomensMonth: overcoming our own barriers with Linda Reddy

Linda Reddy

What does a day in your life look like?

Linda Reddy: I am up at 4.30am and pack lunches then I'm at work by 6.20am. I usually do a full walkabout across the hotel and conference centre and greet my team. Usually, mornings are ops based and afternoons are left for meetings and emails. I get home by 7.30pm, check homework and tuck my girl in bed. Evenings are catching up with my husband, exercise, and reading.

What made you choose a career in your industry? What inspires you?

Reddy: I think the hospitality industry chose me as I seemed to have studied everything to get away from it but I am inspired by the dedication of people to be at service to others. We are surrounded by people who are passionate about their jobs, the people they serve and creating a better life for their families. I love the fact that every day in my job brings something completely different.

Tell us about your journey with Tsogo Sun?

Reddy: My journey started about 20 years ago as a vacation worker. I was a restaurant hostess. Over the years I have worked in most departments and moved to Johannesburg in 2005. I have been a GM for almost ten years across different hotels.

What is the most challenging thing about being a general manager of a hotel?

Reddy: Firstly, the nature of the job means I do not get to spend lots of time with the people I love so I have learned to focus on the quality of the time I have with them. I am completely engaged with my family once I get home.

Do you think it’s important to have a month dedicated to women?

Reddy: I don’t think we celebrate enough the impact women have in a home and in the workplace. We do not focus on the common abusive treatment of women who, despite this, triumph and raise families. We also do not highlight successful women (moms, teachers, business women, etc.) who have stories to share and could help inspire other women and the younger generation.

What barriers did you face, as a woman, becoming successful in your field, and how did you overcome them?

Reddy: I think women innately want to be great at everything and we place ourselves under immense pressure to ensure that we are perfect. So in a way, we are our own barriers. This is overcome by understanding that we cannot find balance, we simply have to find a happy equilibrium.

As I am not aggressive or loud, I often find that it's easier for your opinion to be disregarded but I have realised that people respect confidence and this comes from speaking based on knowledge and then taking action.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women pursuing a career in your field?

Reddy: Be passionate about people. You need to want to be of service to customers and your team. The hospitality industry is glamorous but hard-working people behind the scenes make it all seamless. You have to have resilience and keep evolving as the industry is extremely dynamic.

Who is your biggest influence/role model/icon?

Reddy: My family is my biggest influence. I am extremely grounded and supported by my husband. He is someone who believes in doing what you love and he elevates my confidence. My family keeps me authentic and I can only aspire to be the wonderful mother to my daughter, that my mom is to my sisters and I.
I am inspired by strong and courageous people in all aspects of life.

What is your message for Women's Month?

Reddy: Women be powerful, be genuine, be ambitious. Be great moms, wives, friends, sisters and daughters. Be fighters and protectors. Be yourself and be proud.

Any words of wisdom you would like to share with other women in the business?

Reddy: You have the talent and the drive to achieve anything so sometimes you just have to be clear about what you want and ask for it!