When thinking about the gender and pay gaps in the corporate world, what problems do women face today when trying to advance in their careers? For allies, what do you think women could do better to advocate for themselves when trying to advance their careers?
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Senior Director, Technology Solutions and Analytics in Telecommunicationa year ago
Not being a woman myself, I would say that the biggest thing anyone can do is find a mentor that you trust and can push you to the next level is the key for both women and men.Head of Home Office Underwriting in Finance (non-banking)a year ago
Thank you for being an ally Nathan!
Retired - Former Executive Advisor, CEO / CIO in Manufacturinga year ago
My advice is to read the book “Lean In” by Sheryl SandburgHead of Home Office Underwriting in Finance (non-banking)a year ago
Thanks Ivan, excellent reading suggestion.
Retired - Former Executive Advisor, CEO / CIO in Manufacturinga year ago
Unfortunately, an aspect not in the control of women is men. Too many men still discriminate (yes the glass ceiling still exists), and while an aggressive / confident male is admired, an aggressive / confident women is too often referred to by an unkind word. This is something that we as men must not tolerate!But there is an item in the control of women - marketing! When a man does something good we pat ourselves on the back and tell everyone how great we are. But one of the great aspects of women is their ability to work in a team and in sharing success with others. This an admirable, but does not focus their success in the eyes of senior management.
My advice is not to stop being who you are, but to find a way to ensure management appreciates your confidence, and sees and appreciates your successes! Makes sure you are always viewed as a leader and not as just a manager.
Head of Home Office Underwriting in Finance (non-banking)a year ago
Ivan, thank you for taking the time to add good feedback to the conversation. Your advice is great. Much appreciated.
SVP of Marketing in Bankinga year ago
First, women need a strong foundation to build from. Women can establish themselves by focusing on their personal brand and secure a sponsor to advocate for them when they're not in the room. Consider launching a "Women's Leadership Initiative" (if you don't have one already) that provides educational opportunities, allyship and mentors with the ultimate goal of helping women pursue leadership roles. One tactic to address pay gaps is to educate male leaders. Bring them into the discussion and lean on them as allies (upstanders, sponsors, etc.). Explain the important role they play in advancing the career goals of women. Hope this helps.Head of Home Office Underwriting in Finance (non-banking)a year ago
Hi Laura, that is a great answer. To bring in males into the discussion and educate them on the important role they have in advancing women. Thank you !
Founder in Services (non-Government)a year ago
From my experience and observations:One challenge is not knowing what the pay gaps actually are, come companies try to keep employees from talking about salary and that makes it hard for women to act on facts.
For the women who do ask or try to negotiate pay, they stumble not because of a lack of confidence, but from how to handle and answer the pushback they get and present their accomplishments in a way that men don't perceive as pushy or aggressive. I have found having an ally who will sing your praises helps to counter that.