Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers

Frankel examines how workplace success is not just about competence but also about how women present themselves through their behavior. She discusses 24 common mistakes (Mistakes 19–42) that women make in professional settings, many of which stem from ingrained social conditioning that encourages them to be “nice” rather than strategic and assertive. These behaviors, while often well-intended, can undermine credibility, limit career advancement, and reinforce outdated stereotypes.

One of the first issues Frankel highlights is the difficulty in transitioning from a “nice girl” to a “winning woman.” Women are often socialized to seek approval and avoid conflict, which makes it challenging for them to assert their needs and take charge. When they do attempt to be more assertive, they frequently encounter resistance from those who are accustomed to their previous behavior. Frankel advises women to view this resistance as a sign that they are on the right track and to practice asserting themselves in low-risk situations before tackling bigger challenges.

A common career-limiting habit is failing to prepare for social interactions. Women often focus on being good listeners and making others feel comfortable but may neglect to position themselves as confident professionals in casual conversations. Frankel suggests that women should enter social situations with a clear idea of what they want to communicate about their work and career goals, ensuring they don’t miss opportunities to advocate for themselves.