Heather McGregor and Sue Unerman discuss challenges for women in accessing board positions, emphasizing skills needed and initiatives like the 30% club. They address disparities in executive roles and strategies for building confidence and networks. The podcast also previews a drama on the 1979 Iranian revolution.
Challenges for women in boardrooms stem from the scarcity of qualified candidates to shareholders' concerns.
Women aiming for board memberships should focus on resilience, effective communication of achievements, and strategic networking for success.
Deep dives
Challenges of Women Representation in Boardrooms
The podcast delves into the challenges faced by women in being represented in boardrooms, citing reasons given by top executives in leading companies for the lack of diversity. Issues ranging from the scarcity of experienced women with the right qualifications to shareholders' concerns are discussed, highlighting the complexities involved.
Initiatives for Increasing Women Representation
The episode discusses initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of women on boards, showcasing the efforts of individuals like Heather McGregor who played a significant role in pushing for change. The launch of the 30% club without advocating for quotas but focusing on affirmative action and increasing awareness about the value of diversity is emphasized.
Strategies for Women in Advancing Board Participation
Strategies and advice for women aiming to advance in board memberships are shared. Insights include the importance of resilience when facing setbacks, acknowledging and communicating one's achievements effectively, and engaging in strategic networking to build and utilize professional connections effectively to break through barriers to boardroom participation. Both confidence-building and strategic approaches are underscored as crucial for enhancing women's representation in boardrooms.
The number of female executives in the UK’s top companies remains stubbornly low. Vivienne Nunis speaks to Heather McGregor, dean of the Herriot Watt Business School and Sue Unerman, co-author of The Glass Wall, to hear what women can do to get a seat at the table in big business.
(Photo: Young businesswoman in a meeting, Credit: Getty Images)
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