Does your diversity strategy deliver?
The need for greater diversity in leadership is well-established. Companies have teams promoting inclusion; training programmes try to ‘fix’ the minorities; and a myriad of inspiring speeches have been made. But has there been any meaningful impact?
Sadly, as the Hampton-Alexander Review shows, progress has been patchy. Whilst there has been a steady increase in the gender diversity of FTSE 100 companies’ leadership teams, still 78% of senior appointments went to men in 2018.
So how do you know what actually works to ensure diversity throughout your talent pipeline? At Women on Boards, we rely on evidence-based research. And the research shows that there are specific career strategies that minorities – which still includes women at senior-level – need to employ.
For example, Catalyst found that women were less likely to proactively ‘make their achievements known’, yet this is absolutely vital to their career prospects. Additionally, a recent academic study discovered women need a small inner circle of other women to succeed, in addition to broad-based networks.
It is crucial that minorities understand what strategies will work best for them. We share this practical information in the career support we offer our Corporate Partners. Female and some male employees at 25 leading companies have already benefitted from our workshops, coupled with on-going support and access to our extensive senior network.
“Women on Boards has inspired, engaged and supported women at Oracle – with measurable success in internal promotions and external board positions.” Ana Perez, Oracle
A range of research also shows role-modelling is vital to help women advance. That is why our events are led by experienced female board directors, not traditional trainers.
“Meeting people who’ve done it and believe you can get there too is incredibly inspiring.” Emily Cox, Lloyds Banking Group and our Leadership programme alumna
Women on Boards Corporate Partnership is one element of a diversity strategy that delivers real and measurable benefits. What does yours do?
Get in touch to find out more about Women on Boards Corporate Partnership via contact@womenonboards.co.uk / 0203 925 4080
Fiona is co-founder and Managing Director of Women on Boards UK. She is a former investment director for Old Mutual Asset Management, running the Global Equities and Emerging Markets Desks. Alongside running Women on Boards UK, Fiona advises the stockbroker Peel Hunt, is a Judge for the Non-Executive Director Awards, sponsored by The Sunday Times, and a Patron of the charity Fight for Sight.