Executives in Africa’s Post

At Balance for Better Business, we’re focused on fostering long-term cultural change that places gender balance at the heart of Ireland’s business community. With mixed evidence on the success of gender quotas, we believe that industry actions backed up by firm targets is the best approach to achieve change. That’s why it’s interesting to see new research by the Institute of Directors Ireland, which highlights that quotas are not considered essential for realising diversity, equity and inclusion outcomes. Instead, studies suggest that voluntary targets encourage more successful cultural change because they involve more active corporate strategic choice, incorporate more decision makers, and more self-chosen actions. To inform an evidence-based approach on improving gender diversity in senior leadership in business, we conducted international research on voluntary targets and mandatory quotas, check out the key findings at:  https://lnkd.in/e2unCtSg Read more on Rte.ie. #GenderBalance #FemaleLeadership #Quotas Institute of Directors Ireland https://lnkd.in/eMvRAVmk

Are you familiar with the Conformity Bind? It would not strike me as a surprise if you were not! This invisible barrier, made evident through Michelle P. King's work, forces women to conform to male-dominated workplace cultures, limiting their opportunities for advancement and stifling innovation. In this must-read TED Ideas article, the Conformity Bind is examined under the light that it deserves: one that seeks to challenge outdated norms. 👇 https://lnkd.in/dsndAYbv 💡 It’s time for organisations to step up and break the bind by supporting inclusive cultures, mentoring women leaders, and valuing individuality. Here, at Juno Projects, we are ready to help you be part of the change. #BreakTheBias #InclusiveWorkplace #HR #WomenEmpowerment #JunoProjects

A full on day yesterday at the Chartered Management Institute #CMIWomenConference followed by the launch of Encompass Equality latest research into what factors influence the retention of women. Lovely to meet so many brilliant people and have some fascinating conversations. A fantastic line up of speakers at the CMI Women Conference. Thanks Joy Burnford for the invitation. Biggest takeaways: 💡 All speakers seemed to agree that diverse and inclusive organisations make for better performing businesses and happier, loyal employees. Unfortunately it seems businesses can only be persuaded to invest resources in DE&I and wellbeing initiatives if it’s first demonstrated to improve the bottom line. I think it’s frankly messed up that many businesses (which are only in existence by virtue of the people that work there) only seem to care about looking after their people if it will put more cold hard cash in their pockets. But hey, that’s the world we’ve created 🤷♀️ Happily, we heard from many businesses today that see it differently. 💡Edwina Dunn OBE highlighting the power of the “Invisible Pound” - women make up 51% of the population but control 70% of global GDP! 💡Syreeta Brown, Chartered FCIPD was a breath of fresh air sharing that #diversity (or #representation as she prefers to call it) and #inclusion doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s ditch all the labels and just invite people to share their needs (and obviously listen with curiosity and empathy) 💡Dr Heather Melville, OBE CCMI warned that DE&I recruitment initiatives are all well and good but unless you have an inclusive environment and culture, that talent won’t stay. DE&I should be on the agenda of every board meeting. 💡Lorna Hinds-Sotomey stated that one of the most important factors for creating a culture of inclusivity is having leadership that openly communicates authentically and listens to their employees Which pretty much sums up the theme for me for both of yesterday’s events: ⚠️ one of the biggest barriers to organisations recruiting and retaining diverse and representational talent and creating supportive creative cultures is many managers and senior leaders are ill-equipped with the communication and listening skills required to successfully meet their team’s needs. Many managers have risen through the ranks based on technical expertise but have not been furnished with the people skills required to successfully manage and care for teams. And that is the role of management - to care for and support the individuals they are responsible for. If you or your organisation could benefit from support or advice in this area, do get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.

💪 Are women fit to take on a managerial role? It's crucial to challenge these myths and create a workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. By breaking down stereotypes and providing equal opportunities, organisations can harness the full potential of their female talent. #Leadership #Management #GenderEquality #Womenleaders

Diversity and Inclusion is Everyone’s Responsibility not just the responsibility of corporate or business leaders. Please download my new Whitepaper which summarises in part what I discussed in a recent webinar for International Women’s Day for Women In Banking and Finance. Forward this to your colleagues, associates and members of your business. Make sure everyone takes responsibility for changing behaviours and attitudes and help create a more inclusive, balanced and appreciative workplace. Click here to download my new whitepaper: https://lnkd.in/gqTVa-Ju

It was an insightful conversation at the Society for Corporate Governance International Women's Day event with the theme Inclusive Leadership: Harnessing Diversity for Innovation,Resilience and Sustainable Success. Key highlights are as shared below: 1. Inclusion should not be a CONCEPT,there is need for CONSISTENCY,so that it becomes a CULTURE. You need a CHAMPION to push the Vision and they will require great COURAGE. 2. As women, we need to add VALUE to our Organizations. Be deliberate and intentional. 3. Be engaging especially in a room packed with men. Get knowledgeable on various topics. 4. Develop yourself. Don't let positions be given to you as a token. Even if it were given as a token, build capacity. 5. Embrace diverse perspectives to issues. 6. You need a support system from work colleagues,family and the Society. 7. Outsource where necessary so you don't burn out. Don't try to be a SUPER WOMAN. Thank you to @Society for corporate Governance, Dr. Toyin F Sanni , Osepiribo Ben-Willie and other discussants for the invaluable insights. #Let's act and not just talk# # Inclusion and Diversity#

How Diversity Can Help Your Organisation Overcome Business Challenges Boards of Directors need to reflect the way the world is changing in order to thrive and grow. McKinsey Consulting’s 'Diversity Matters' report showed that companies with the greatest ethnic, racial, and gender diversity at management are significantly more likely to outperform their competitors. How diverse is your board? #diversity #boardofdirectors #directors #BoardroomAdvisors

How Diversity Can Help Your Organisation Overcome Business Challenges Boards of Directors need to reflect the way the world is changing in order to thrive and grow. McKinsey Consulting’s 'Diversity Matters' report showed that companies with the greatest ethnic, racial, and gender diversity at management are significantly more likely to outperform their competitors. How diverse is your board? #diversity #boardofdirectors #directors #BoardroomAdvisors

How Diversity Can Help Your Organisation Overcome Business Challenges Boards of Directors need to reflect the way the world is changing in order to thrive and grow. McKinsey Consulting’s 'Diversity Matters' report showed that companies with the greatest ethnic, racial, and gender diversity at management are significantly more likely to outperform their competitors. How diverse is your board? #diversity #boardofdirectors #directors #BoardroomAdvisors

How Diversity Can Help Your Organisation Overcome Business Challenges Boards of Directors need to reflect the way the world is changing in order to thrive and grow. McKinsey Consulting’s 'Diversity Matters' report showed that companies with the greatest ethnic, racial, and gender diversity at management are significantly more likely to outperform their competitors. How diverse is your board? #diversity #boardofdirectors #directors #BoardroomAdvisors