International Women’s Day is back on the 8th March 2022 and celebrates women across the world. This year the theme is #BreakTheBias.
We’ve got so many amazing women across Norfolk doing incredible things so we’re celebrating them across the month of March. We’ve also got some inspirational women who work within Norfolk Chambers of Commerce, and we're shining the light on them too.
We asked Norfolk Chamber Member, Karin Carruthers a few questions...
Why is supporting women in business so important?
Supporting anyone in business is important - not just women. However, there are many roles, where historically, it was a stereotypical male environment. Therefore, it is essential to show women in these areas that anything is possible and that there should be no differentiation.
What do you or your business do to support women in your teams?
At Scream Blue Murder, we:
• Make them feel confident that they can achieve anything they wish
• Give them every opportunity to achieve their goals
• Do not differentiate or typecast them versus male colleagues
What skills do you feel are the biggest asset that women have in the workplace?
The biggest asset women have is empathy. Women are relationship specialists. They excel in the soft skills needed to nurture relationships and lead in business.
What challenges do women face in the workplace that are different to men?
There is still a considerable cultural challenge in some environments where women are not heard and respected, unable to get ‘a seat at the table.’ Imposter syndrome is also an issue, especially for women who hold senior positions, who return to work after a break, such as maternity leave.
What advice would you give to male colleagues to support women in the workplace?
• Listen, be quiet and don’t problem-solve.
• Men should support and amplify women in meetings, so they feel comfortable to speak up and get their point across.
• Finally, they need to work as allies towards the same common goal.
What top tips would you give your younger self when it comes to business?
• Read a book a week for the rest of your life - one where you learn something new or challenge your thinking.
• See every problem as an opportunity
• Work consistently, taking small steps to achieve an outcome
• Do things that give you a sense of empowerment!