Celebrated annually on March 8^th, International Women’s Day highlights the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the globe. Sitting within the broader celebration of Women’s History Month annually during March which is recognised in the US, UK and Australia, this year’s theme for IWD is equity.

The organisation state on their website “A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society’s DNA. And it’s critical to understand the difference between equity and equality. The aim of the IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign theme is to get the world talking about Why equal opportunities aren’t enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action.”

As an organisation that has long championed equity, opportunities and diversity in leadership, The TCM Group is proud to have exceptional female leaders including our Directors, Harriette Wolff (Resolution Services), Ginette Oliver (Transformation Services) and Lisajay Baker (Business Operations and Chief of Staff).

Studies have shown that having diversity in leadership positions leads to better business outcomes. However, in 2023, there is still a significant lack of women in leadership positions. According to a recent study by Fawcett Society, in the UK, women account for:

• 38% of non-executive directors
• 14% of executive directors
• 8% of FTSE 100 CEOs (of which none are women of colour)

Benefits of increasing the number of women in leadership roles include diversifying the skill set of leaders, introducing soft skills, innovation, varying perspectives and improving collaboration.

Continuing this dialogue along the theme of equity for women and creating positive change we’re sharing 5 bitesize tips to champion female leadership in your organisation. Read on below!

Address and recognise bias: Equity recognises that we are different but should be afforded the same opportunities. The first and vital step is to embrace this fact and take steps to ensure female employees in your organisation are given a fair chance to thrive.

Create an inclusive culture: Your organisation’s culture should allow all employees to bring their whole selves to work, share ideas, collaborate effectively and develop. An inclusive workplace culture will allow female employees to shine by developing unique perspectives and insights, innovating, and growing in confidence.

Invest in coaching: Personalised coaching in a safe space is one of the most powerful ways that employees can be supported to tap into their potential, flourish into their best selves and overcome any barriers that may be blocking their career progress.

Identify potential barriers: Are there aspect of your policies, procedures and/or organisational culture that make it difficult for women to progress? Identify these and make the necessary changes in order to make progressive steps towards an environment that champions female leadership.

Be an engaging leader: Great leaders embody confidence, competence, integrity and respect among some of their characteristics. In essence, inspire female employees to aspire towards leadership roles and progression by showcasing leadership in a positive accessible light.

Ready to start your journey towards equitable change for women? Reach out to our Leadership & Coaching team. We hosted an exclusive webinar ‘Women in Leadership’ with our Directors, Harriette Wolff and Ginette Oliver, alongside our Coaching Coordinator Amy Thurstan, who outlined the benefits of improving diversity in leadership and how leaders can support and develop employees into leadership positions through training and coaching. Watch the recording below.