It may be the most ancient question known to man causing consternation and chaos in countless great minds from Confucius to Freud. But the simple proposition "what do women want?" is often less complex than we might imagine.
So we conducted research into the key issues faced by female managers, directors and business owners, which revealed some enlightening factors. We asked:
What are the key challenges facing women in business?
It was no surprise to discover that the age old "juggling act" of balancing work and family responsibilities weighed heavy on the broadest and strongest of shoulders. Despite supportive partners at home the bulk of family commitments still fell to the woman so consequently stress, fatigue and burn out were real issues.
Others confessed that adopting a "macho" stance was often a coping mechanism when working in a male dominated environment where saying "no" to extra work was not an option and any kind of vulnerability was seen a weakness.
What specific skills do women bring to work?
Women excel at multi-tasking and communicating. They can type a report, deal with a crisis and negotiate deals on the side; whilst planning dinner for the family as well as remembering to wash the football kits. Women can be supportive team players and naturally intelligent leaders using empathy and compassion to get results too.
What do you think companies need to do to recruit and retain female talent?
Recruiting more women into senior and board positions would certainly enhance the profile of many organizations; whilst encouraging others to join or stay with the company. Flexibility was the common need for women in key positions. This would allow women to work around their home life without diminishing productivity.
Who or what has contributed to your success?
All the women in our report referred to great male and female managers and role models, who listened to them, inspired them and gave them the confidence to succeed. Others found a trusted team that supported them provided great strength and using a coach or a mentor as a sounding board was good for bouncing off risky new ideas.
What support, learning or development do you think women need in business today?
Promoting and providing job opportunities for women in senior positions needs to be supported with appropriate learning and development interventions. Confidence coaching would also help raise their visibility.
Other areas identified, where women would like increased help included managing stress, work/life balance, keeping up to date with information whilst taking maternity leave and support when returning after a career break.
So we conducted research into the key issues faced by female managers, directors and business owners, which revealed some enlightening factors. We asked:
What are the key challenges facing women in business?
It was no surprise to discover that the age old "juggling act" of balancing work and family responsibilities weighed heavy on the broadest and strongest of shoulders. Despite supportive partners at home the bulk of family commitments still fell to the woman so consequently stress, fatigue and burn out were real issues.
Others confessed that adopting a "macho" stance was often a coping mechanism when working in a male dominated environment where saying "no" to extra work was not an option and any kind of vulnerability was seen a weakness.
What specific skills do women bring to work?
Women excel at multi-tasking and communicating. They can type a report, deal with a crisis and negotiate deals on the side; whilst planning dinner for the family as well as remembering to wash the football kits. Women can be supportive team players and naturally intelligent leaders using empathy and compassion to get results too.
What do you think companies need to do to recruit and retain female talent?
Recruiting more women into senior and board positions would certainly enhance the profile of many organizations; whilst encouraging others to join or stay with the company. Flexibility was the common need for women in key positions. This would allow women to work around their home life without diminishing productivity.
Who or what has contributed to your success?
All the women in our report referred to great male and female managers and role models, who listened to them, inspired them and gave them the confidence to succeed. Others found a trusted team that supported them provided great strength and using a coach or a mentor as a sounding board was good for bouncing off risky new ideas.
What support, learning or development do you think women need in business today?
Promoting and providing job opportunities for women in senior positions needs to be supported with appropriate learning and development interventions. Confidence coaching would also help raise their visibility.
Other areas identified, where women would like increased help included managing stress, work/life balance, keeping up to date with information whilst taking maternity leave and support when returning after a career break.
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