Studies have shown that organizations which have a fair representation of women in senior leadership generally tend to do better than those that don’t. The diversity that women bring to the table makes for a stronger leadership team.
As we approach the International Women’s Day, I have been doing my own reflection on the significance of this day and whether it does much to bring equality between men and women.
I must admit that it’s great to recognize and celebrate the achievements and progress that women have made over the decades. However, if women are going to have a level playing field with men then this day should be used by companies, organizations and various entities to reflect on the progress they have made within to achieve gender parity.
Last week I came across an article about a European politician who believes that women should be paid less because they are weaker, smaller and less intelligent.
“Of course women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent, they must earn less, that’s all,” said Mr Korwin-Mikke.
As appalling as this sounds, it is sadly shared by many leaders and stakeholders around the world. Although many will not publicly express the same sentiments, it’s evidenced in various ways. These include the fact that women continue to be underrepresented in boardrooms and senior leadership teams as well as being underpaid compared to their male counterparts. While a few organizations are doing better than most, there is still lots of room for improvement.
The world needs more leaders and organizations to recognize the danger of not having diverse teams. It’s time for organizations to start doing some deep self-examination and making progress in leveling the playing field. Non diverse teams often lead to group think which ultimately results in a lack of innovation. More diversity in an organization’s senior leadership team is for its own good. Great things happen when women sit at the table!
