Edelman Malaysia's Mazuin Zin: 'There are no male or female bosses, only leaders'

Throughout her 20 years in the agency world, Mazuin Zin (pictured), managing director, Edelman Malaysia, believes in getting her hands dirty and being tenacious. Known to be a transformational leader, Mazuin has helmed roles in key agency networks such as MullenLowe, Leo Burnett Group and Ogilvy.Amidst the gender debate, Mazuin strongly believes that gender does not play a role when it comes to being a leader. Instead, she tells A+M that one's attitude and performance is key to earning respect from employees.A+M: What has been the toughest thing about being a female boss?Mazuin: There are no male or female bosses, only leaders. And the toughest challenge of leadership is to ensure you never let the team down.A+M: Staff members aren’t always the kindest to opinionated female leaders. How do you deal with this?Mazuin: For any leadership role, building acceptance starts with building mutual trust and respect with individuals. From there on it is all about playing as one team.A+M: What are some of the biggest challenges’ women on top in the ad/marketing world face?Mazuin: I’ve always believed performance speaks the loudest. Everyone is looking to partner with individuals who are resilient, honest, passionate and can stand the test of time. Our biggest challenge comes from within.A+M: A tip for ambitious women?Mazuin: Do know that it is not the brightest of men or women but determined individuals who shine eventually.A+M: Last year, the #MeToo movement took the world by storm. Do you think the #MeToo movement had an impact in the local adland?Mazuin: Social media chatter has really blurred the lines between what’s true, and what’s not. Being in the business of communications it is imperative to stay well informed. Yes, it has created awareness amongst all of us for sure.A+M: Is sexism and harassment in the ad/marketing industry an issue in Malaysia?Mazuin: I believe ultimately your upbringing and value system serves as your guiding light to stay focused on your goals and serves as a sign of zero tolerance for those around.A+M: Do you see tides changing locally since the emergence of the #MeToo movement?Mazuin: Yes, awareness helps, but eventually it depends on the individual and their discretion. Besides, your organisation plays an equally important role in sensitising and helping to build a healthier work culture and environment.This is part of an International Women’s Day series by A+M, featuring female leaders in the industry and their views on being a female boss.Read also:‘Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves early on in your career,’ says Dentsu One’s Michelle OngTBWA\ Malaysia’s Yee Hui Tsin on owning decisions and throwing punches‘I continue to be authentic and remain who I am,’ says VMLY&R Asia’s Tripti LochanWavemaker Malaysia’s Michelle Achuthan on surviving a boys’ club‘Opinionated doesn’t mean aggressive or masculine,’ says Pos marketer Schrene GohGrey Group Malaysia’s Irene Wong: ‘For me, taking charge feels natural’‘Find your voice, not just to speak but to be heard,’ says M&C Saatchi’s Lara HusseinFacebook’s Nicole Tan on mentoring women and creating opportunities around itEx-AirAsia marketer Kathleen Tan shares her personal challenges as a female boss