As part of the ABM’s International Women's Day celebrations, this month's Words of Wisdom episode takes a closer look at how mentoring can support women in business and create a more inclusive and supportive business environment.
Hosted by ABM CEO Georgina Waite and ABM Director Gary King with guests ABM Full Members & Kathie O’Donoghue & Philippa Seal, this episode provides valuable insights into barriers women face in business, how women in business and the workplace can be supported through mentoring and the role of ABM in supporting women in business.
Usually only available for ABM Members, this Words of Wisdom episode is available to all. Listen to the podcast below or read on for a summary of key insights.
ABM CEO Georgina Waite, begins the podcast by highlighting the importance of an inclusive workspace and business landscape. Studies show that women in senior positions lead to better company performance by 20%, stronger culture, governance, empathy and collaboration. Georgina highlighted other important trends, including the increasing number of female founded businesses and the positive impact of women in boardrooms. The importance of this issue to society and the economy is underlined by the importance it is given to both government and other political parties in their economic and business policies.
“Women want and need to work, the world has changed.” - Georgina Waite, ABM CEO
The podcast delved into the personal journeys of Philippa, Kathie, and Georgina, discussing how barriers and life changes impacted their paths to becoming business owners. Philippa highlighted the economic reasons why women may not venture into risky entrepreneurship early on, often finding success later in life. Raising a family for example poses unique challenges, making mentoring support crucial to overcome those challenges. Kathie further added that as someone navigating the challenges of the menopause while managing three businesses, mentoring can be a massive support to throughout this period of shifting priorities and changing dynamics. Georgina shared insights into how personal factors like raising children impacted her mindset, decision-making, and future aspirations in her journey, highlighting the enormous impact mentoring had on her career.
The discussion identified several general barriers that women still face in the business landscape:
The podcast explored the transformative impact of mentoring on female business owners and women in the workplace. Kathie highlighted the importance of mentors being agile and adapting to changing priorities of their mentees. This adaptability allows mentors to focus on listening skills, providing tailored support during critical life changes. Philippa emphasised the unique challenges faced by female owners and how mentoring fills gaps, particularly in networking opportunities and navigating corporate landscapes.
Kathie and Philippa discussed the concept of progress in this area and how the ABM can support women in business through mentoring and supervision. Gary shared reflections on the importance of male advocates, underlining the need for collective efforts in supporting women in business.
Throughout March we will be releasing a series of blog articles in collaboration with our partner Netwomen as well as announce upcoming initiatives for later in the year. Read Netwomen’s article ‘Barriers in the workplace’ here. ABM members can also sign up for this month’s Mentor Motivation session, which is focused on mentoring through the Menopause.
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