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, Lucy Mowatt a few questions...
Why is supporting women in business so important?
Not only do women make up 50% of the population but they have valuable skills, experiences and spending power. By supporting women in business you can help to redress gender stereotypes and help to boost the economy.
What do you or your business do to support women in your teams?
We have regular check-ups with team members. It's important to engage in informal daily chats, regular one-to-ones and annual appraisals to ensure that they're happy in their roles and are able develop professionally.
What skills do you feel are the biggest asset that women have in the workplace?
Women often have softer skills alongside vocational ones – which is vital in all workplaces!
What challenges do women face in the workplace that are different to men?
Unfortunately, traditional views and biases persist in many businesses, which mean women find it harder to be promoted and taken seriously. And that's without considering the gender pay gap...
What advice would you give to male colleagues to support women in the workplace?
Listen to your female counterparts. How can you help them to grow and develop in a way that is mutually beneficial? What can you learn from their insights and experiences? Women represent 50% of the population and have significant spending power - you might just learn something about your customers by listening to your colleagues.
What top tips would you give your younger self when it comes to business?
Ask someone you admire to be your mentor.