Happy International Women’s Day.
There’s been a bit of a backlash against IWD this year but the truth is far too many women still face unnecessary barriers to progress compared to their male counterparts. It is important to keep raising awareness – on this day and, yes, everyday – until the world is fairer and more inclusive to women across all of society, including in the workplace. That is why awareness days exist.
There should be no gender barriers to inclusion – it should not just be left to women to increase participation and, as social media posting shows today, many men support gender equity and inclusion.
A few top tips for employers:
- Do not assume flexible working is just for female employees – it is not!
- Pay women equally for the same work.
- Check for intersectionality – women from other minority groups face even greater barriers.
- Take proactive steps to prevent harassment and sexual harassment.
- Include everyone in conversations – do not create new barriers when breaking old ones.
Our CEO, Laura Evans commented:
“It is important for all of us to work together towards gender inclusion but, for me, the whole thing starts to fall down when women step into positions of leadership and influence then stop championing other women.
I’ve been supported and inspired by many female colleagues in my career – too many to name here! Sadly, I’ve experienced far more female than male colleagues attempting to hold me and other female colleagues back over the years, which is always disappointing.
The UN’s theme this year is: ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’. For all the women out there yet to find their voice or reach their potential: I hear you, I support employers to invest in you, I will help you to accelerate your progress by helping you to find the answers inside you.”
8th March, 2024