Women Work Wellbeing

This week we interviewed Becky Ray from Culture Kicks to talk all things stereotypes, being looked up and down my male colleagues, called a girl and backing yourself at work.

Here are some key takeaways

1. On Psychological Safety in the Workplace:Becky Ray emphasised the importance of psychological safety, stating, "It's safe to speak up... to share your ideas and your concerns and to say when it's not okay." This environment allows women to voice their concerns without fear of not being supported.
2. Challenging Discriminatory Comments:She highlighted the need for a culture where "everybody in the team... can challenge [discriminatory comments] and it's not okay." Creating an inclusive environment where such comments are not tolerated is crucial for a supportive workplace.
3. Turning Frustrations into Focus:Becky discussed how leaders should "listen to what [employees] have got to say. And do something about it." Addressing frustrations and turning them into actionable focus points can lead to a more productive and satisfied workforce.

Connect with Becky on LinkedIn

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Welcome to our latest blog post on the Jobs for Women website! Today, we're excited to share insights from a recent episode of the Jobs for Women Podcast: How They Did It, featuring Olivia Preston-Lee, the dynamic Events and Partnerships Manager at Talk Twenties.

Breaking Into the World of Events and Partnerships

Olivia's journey is a testament to the power of networking, strategic volunteering, and boldness in career progression. With a background in business studies, philosophy, and theater studies, Olivia's diverse interests led her to pursue a degree in events management. Her proactive approach to career development, including starting a mobile bar during her university years, laid the foundation for her current role.

1. 🌐 Networking is Crucial: Olivia's story underscores the importance of building connections and reaching out proactively. Networking can open unexpected doors in your career.
2. 🤝 Strategic Volunteering: Volunteering is not just about giving time; it's about strategic engagement. Choose opportunities that align with your career goals and can provide meaningful experiences.
3. 🎓 Education's Role: While a degree in events management is helpful, it's not the only path to success in the field. Education can broaden your perspective and skill set, but practical experience is equally valuable.
4. 🚀 Be Bold and Ask: Don't hesitate to ask for opportunities or advice. Being bold can lead to significant breakthroughs in your career.
5. 📅 Dynamic Role of Events Management: The role of an Events and Partnerships Manager is diverse and ever-changing, involving creativity, strategy, and logistical planning.
6. 🔮 Future of Events Industry: The industry is evolving, with a trend towards more intimate, technology-driven events. Staying adaptable and forward-thinking is key.
7. 🤗 Maintain Approachability: Regardless of career success, staying approachable and grounded is important. It helps in building lasting relationships and a positive reputation in the industry.
8. 📈 Continuous Learning: Olivia's pursuit of a master's degree highlights the value of continuous learning and development in one's career.
9. 🌟 Leaving a Positive Impact: Aim to leave a mark in your industry by being helpful, open to conversations, and never dismissing others' queries or concerns.
10. 📲 Stay Connected: Engaging with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

Connect with Olivia

For those interested in connecting with Olivia, she can be found on LinkedIn here and Instagram (@oliviaprestonlee.events).

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Read the episode round-up here

The Core of 'Let Them' Theory: At its heart, the 'Let Them' theory is about releasing the need to control others. Whether it's a colleague, a family member, or a stranger, the theory encourages us to let people be as they are, without imposing our expectations or desires on them. This approach is not only liberating but also reduces stress and anxiety, allowing us to focus more on our own goals and well-being.

Application in the Workplace: For women in the workplace, the 'Let Them' theory can be particularly empowering. Often, we find ourselves trying to meet unrealistic expectations or attempting to control situations that are beyond our influence. By adopting this theory, we can redirect our energy towards our own growth and productivity, rather than getting caught up in what others are doing.

Personal Insights from Zoe Haydn Jones: Zoe shares personal anecdotes and examples from Mel Robbins to illustrate the power of this theory. From handling slow drivers to managing workplace dynamics, the 'Let Them' theory helps in maintaining peace and fostering better relationships.

Transforming Workplace Dynamics: In a professional setting, this approach can significantly alter how we interact with colleagues and superiors. By letting go of the need to control every outcome, we can create a more harmonious and less stressful work environment. This is especially crucial for women who often juggle multiple roles and face unique challenges in the workplace.

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This week we welcome Jess Heagren, CEO of Careers After Babies. The conversation was a profound dive into the challenges and triumphs faced by working mothers, illuminated by Jess's personal experiences and her organisation's initiatives.

• Jess on Maternity Policies: Jess emphasised the importance of accessible and transparent maternity policies, stating, "You should be able to have access to those before you join an organization."
• Addressing Career Changes Post-Pregnancy: Jess shared alarming statistics from a survey she conducted, revealing the harsh reality many women face: "Within two weeks, I had more than 800 women come back and say this is my story."
• On Starting Careers After Babies: Jess described the genesis of her organization as a response to the need for family-friendly employers, saying, "Careers after babies is all about making really family-friendly employers, and we're doing that through our accreditation process."

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Key Takeaways:

1. The Need for Transparency in Workplace Policies: Jess highlighted the importance of companies being upfront about their maternity and flexible working policies, advocating for these to be known before even joining an organization.
2. Impact of Motherhood on Careers: The podcast shed light on the significant number of women who are compelled to change their careers post-pregnancy due to inadequate workplace accommodations.
3. Empowering Employers and Employees: Careers After Babies is pioneering a movement to create a cohort of employers who are thoroughly supportive of working parents, setting a new standard in the corporate world.

Jess's journey from facing personal challenges as a working mother to spearheading an initiative that advocates for better workplace policies is both inspiring and a call to action. Her insights on the podcast offer valuable lessons for both employers and employees about the importance of supportive work environments, especially for parents returning from maternity leave.

Access the careers after babies report here: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-report

Findout more about accreditation here: https://www.careersafterbabies.org/careers-after-babies-accreditation

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Our new episode HOW THEY DID IT invites Vicky Heward from Optimo

Vicky is a skilled Business Analyst with over a decade of diverse experience. With a strong background in both technology and business analysis, she has worked across a range of industries, from not-for-profit to healthcare and manufacturing. As a mentor and advocate for EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), Vicky is committed to empowering new talent in the tech sector and promoting inclusivity.

It was during her tenure at the charity that Vicky discovered her aptitude for analysis. Her involvement in user acceptance testing and project work within the operations department revealed her natural inclination for understanding and improving processes. This realisation was pivotal, as it steered her towards a more analytical role within the organisation.

Embracing a Sideways Career Move

A significant turning point in Vicky's career was her decision to apply for a junior systems analyst role within the same charity. This move, though lateral, represented a significant shift in her career trajectory. It was a step out of her comfort zone, moving away from a managerial position to a more specialized analytical role. This decision underscores the importance of being open to non-linear career paths and the value of exploring new professional avenues.

Key Takeaways

Diverse Paths to Success: Vicky emphasises that there are different types of analysts and that not all roles require technical skills like coding. Her ability to act as a translator between business and technical teams highlights the diversity of skills needed in this field.

Qualifications vs. Experience: While qualifications can be beneficial, Vicky points out that they are not always essential for breaking into the field. Practical experience and a willingness to learn can be just as valuable.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Vicky candidly shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, particularly in male-dominated environments. Her story is a powerful reminder of the challenges women often face in tech-related fields and the importance of perseverance.

The Value of Mentorship: Reflecting on her own experiences, Vicky underscores the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. Finding someone who can provide guidance and support can be a game-changer in one’s career.

Embracing Fear: One of the best pieces of advice Vicky received and shares is to face fears head-on. She encourages taking on challenges that seem daunting, as these are often the most rewarding and growth-inducing experiences.

The Importance of Continuous Learning: Vicky's journey shows that learning and development are ongoing processes in a business analyst's career. Staying curious and continuously seeking knowledge is key.

Read the episode round-up here

Connect with Vicky on LinkedIn here

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Is Your Boss Toxic?

Navigating the Challenges of a Toxic Workplace: Insights and Strategies

In the dynamic world of work, one of the most challenging obstacles an employee can face is dealing with a toxic boss. The influence of leadership on the work environment is profound and far-reaching, often extending beyond the confines of the office into one's personal life.

Toxic bosses come in various guises. Some may be overt in their negativity and disrespect, easily identifiable through their blatant disregard for empathy or professionalism. Others might operate more subtly, employing tactics like micromanagement or taking credit for others' work. Recognizing these behaviors is the first step in addressing the issue.

The effects of working under such leadership are significant. Beyond the immediate stress and frustration, there's a risk of long-term mental and emotional impacts, including anxiety and burnout. This necessitates not only awareness but also action.

Read our blog

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In our latest episode of the Jobs for Women Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Meggie Palmer (Pep Talk Her), a renowned advocate for women’s career advancement and fair compensation. This episode, titled Elevating Your Earnings Through Empowered Negotiation dives deep into the art of salary negotiation, specifically tailored for women in the workforce. Here’s a roundup of some impactful quotes from Meggie and the key takeaways from our enlightening conversation.

🌈 What You’ll Discover:

The Power of Recognising Your Worth: Learn how to assess and articulate your value in the workplace, setting the stage for successful negotiations.

Mastering the Art of Negotiation: Meggie provides practical tips on preparing for salary discussions, handling rejection, and turning a ‘no’ into a new opportunity.

Beyond the Paycheck: Explore the world of negotiating for non-monetary benefits that can enhance your career and work-life balance.

💡 Key Takeaways:

“It’s not just about your current role, but also about your potential. Recognize the full spectrum of your worth.” – Meggie Palmer

Discover how to approach a ‘no’ in negotiations, using it as a stepping stone for future success.

Learn about alternative forms of compensation when a raise isn’t an option.

Connect with Meggie Palmer on LinkedIn

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This week we discuss periods at work, how to navigate painful periods, how to communicate with your boss, and when to go to HR.

Read the episode round-up here

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In a recent episode of the Jobs for Women podcast, host Zoe Haydn Jones welcomed Claire Hill, a self-belief coach and Vivid Business Club owner as well as host of the NO Rest for the Vivid podcast.

The conversation, rich with insights and personal anecdotes, delved into the challenges and triumphs of fostering self-belief, particularly among women in their professional journeys.

Claire Hill shared her perspective on the role of doubt in personal and professional growth. She believes that doubts, while often painful, are essential for growth. "It's about recognising how much you've got to experience to get to where you want to be," Claire remarked. She likened the process to climbing a mountain, where each new level presents its own challenges and requires different tools and increased self-belief.

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This week host Zoe Haydn Jones talks all things Equal Pay Day coming up on 22nd November. The day women officially work for free until the end of the year - yes 40 days of free work. We also talk about asking for salary brackets within your organisation and using your voice to command the salary you deserve.

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