It is finally here - 2016! And, although I don't often make predictions, I know that the signs are clear that 2016 will be a tipping point for women in business. The definition of a tipping point is "the point at which a series of small changes or incidents becomes significant enough to cause a larger, more important change." Let me share my thoughts on what's ahead.

First, the lack of women on corporate boards has gotten a lot of press over the past 15 or more years. I believe that 2016 will be the year that the numbers will dramatically change, Why? First, there is irrefutable evidence that the boards of companies with more than one woman (three or more) are more profitable. Second, finally there are more women CEOs (not many more, but more than ever in our history) of public companies to choose from and those women are ready with lists of qualified women to join them. Third, many countries now have quotas for women on corporate boards (Norway, France, Spain and Germany) and those that don't have made a big effort in the last couple of years to move to parity. As is often the case, America is behind in this regard, but the evidence of success can't be denied any longer and corporate boards around the country are focusing their attention on women more than ever before. So finally, if you are a woman in business with the talents and qualifications to be on a corporate board get your name and CV to a board recruiter or make it known that you are looking. You may just be the next woman in America to make history.

Second prediction, more women in business will move into executive leadership positions. Why? The workplace of 2016 is more diverse than ever before, but gender diversity is less of a problem then age. In other words, the parent trap affects men as well as women in business. The responsible child caretaker is just as likely a man as it is a woman in many companies today so the workplace is becoming a little less chauvinistic. The drive for employees to work at home provides the opportunity for less transparency as to who actually is taking care of the kids and more focus on making sure the job gets done in a 24/7 work world. Yes, there are still some companies that regard young women as time bombs ready to explode at any minute once they marry and decide on becoming Mommies. But, more and more companies are more interested in being able to report on the diversity of their workforce and getting the work done. So, having it all just means getting it all done and relying on the village (grandparents and others) ready to help you.

Third prediction, women in business often leave for the entrepreneurial itch. I often call it wanting to give birth to a business and nurture it. 2016 will continue to see more women start businesses on their own terms and in their own ways. Many of these women will be surprised at how hard it is to be an entrepreneur, but they will love every minute of it nonetheless. Those women who don't choose to start businesses when they leave corporate will jump, with both feet, into their communities or local nonprofits. Giving back will continue to be a pattern around the country as women live longer and healthier. I personally know of women in their 90's working every day for a cause they care about. So, don't get me started about how much a difference women impact our world.

Finally, my last prediction is that the presidential election, regardless of who wins, will once and for all, change the way women are perceived. Yes, of course, I believe that Hillary Clinton will be the candidate for the Democrats, but this blog will never be political. I only share my common sense and experience with my readers. So, pay close attention to the election ahead because there will be many women running for many political jobs - from President, Vice President, Senators, Governors, and other Representatives. But, for the first time in our history the negative words will be less about clothes and demeanor and more about untrustworthiness, and being an insider etc. Yes, the insults for the women running are exactly the same words used for the men running. So, yes, I am excited about this progress? Because it is progress, and for me, someone you cares about how women are treated, promoted, accepted and honored, I want to see an America that wakes up to the wonderful talents that women have to offer. I hope I have convinced you here that 2016 will be the year we have been waiting for.

I hope you will check back with me on December 31, 2016 and let me know how I did. Thanks for reading and Happy New Year 2016!