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, Isabelle Hutton a few questions...
Why is supporting women in business so important?
In spite of the progress made over the past few decades, things still aren’t equal when it comes to gender equality in the workplace, and we cannot afford to stand still. There has never been a higher level of awareness about gender and business. But this movement, is still too slow.
Women are drivers and influencers in a variety of fields. While it is true that men and women have different experiences and backgrounds, when it comes to business, this is actually a good thing. A company with a variety of viewpoints is more likely to be innovative and push industry boundaries.
A gender-diverse company has wider consumer intelligence and, as a result, is more profitable. Businesses with a more gender-diverse workforce are more likely to outperform the industry average.
What do you or your business do to support women in your teams?
Diversity and inclusion should be top of the priority list. Our environments allow individuals to be equally recognised and rewarded for their strengths and contributions; listening to their thoughts, considering their opinions and making sure they are represented in decision making.
We must be active, not passive, against sexism. Unacceptable situations and behaviours must be reported and action taken.
When it comes to accomplishing goals or building a solid workplace relationship, the feminine touch and skills such as empathy, intuition and optimism of women work towards the benefit of the company. The emotional intelligence of women help to create a healthy workplace relationship and well-rounded workforce.
As such women can bring significant positive changes to the workplace - such as encourage flexible working, a healthy work-life balance, effective communication, diversity, and a feeling of togetherness.
What skills do you feel are the biggest asset that women have in the workplace?
When it comes to accomplishing goals or building a solid workplace relationship, the feminine touch and skills such as empathy, intuition and optimism of women work towards the benefit of the company. The emotional intelligence of women help to create a healthy workplace relationship and well-rounded workforce.
As such women can bring significant positive changes to the workplace - such as encourage flexible working, a healthy work-life balance, effective communication, diversity, and a feeling of togetherness.
What challenges do women face in the workplace that are different to men?
Women still need to work hard in many areas to overcome deeply embedded issues. Women are still heavily under-represented in many industries, gender bias does still exist in the workplace, as well as the gender pay gap and the ineffectiveness of workplace policies.
What advice would you give to male colleagues to support women in the workplace?
The more aware we are of other people’s experiences in the workplace, the more we can work together to create a genuinely inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. Switching focuses from productivity and results, seeking managers that can work flexibility and having pay transparency is key. We shouldn't shy away from talking about uncomfortable or difficult topics. Each of us, regardless of our race or gender, has a role to play
What top tips would you give your younger self when it comes to business?
While goals can give you clarity and targets, don’t get fixated on them. Plans will almost always change so be prepared! Live your life with open arms. You will end up where you’re meant to be, so don’t stress it.