International Women's Day 2021: Make a difference for today and tomorrow

Thankfully, there are a growing number of resources to teach men how to promote gender equity in the workplace. Since first reading McKinsey’s annual report of women in the workplace 5 years ago, I’ve been on a personal journey to be a positive agent for change for women in the workplace. Why? Because changing decades of bias does not happen overnight, because cultures often move glacially (even if the ‘why’ is clear and compelling), and because I have five daughters that I want to see thrive in the workplace of tomorrow. So, on this international women’s day, I have a two part call to action to the men at SAIC and across the professional services industry.

First, advocate for an increased level of flexibility and creatively in work arrangements. If you are a leader, encourage your team (men and women) to take advantage of your company’s policies and tailor them to individuals that are trying to harmonize jobs, kids, community, and personal goals. We operate in teams for a reason, to help each other balance the priorities of work and life and giving the freedom to strike that balance, we will create an environment that enables upward mobility for men and women. Talk about what behaviors and policies may be holding individuals back from their career aspirations and commit to help them navigate those roadblocks. Be open and become an advocate for positive change for today’s workplace.

Second, I have a request for all men in the workplace that have daughters (no matter the age). Help your daughter lead and encourage her to lead or expand her leadership role. Several studies show that bias experienced in developing ages may discourage girls from taking leadership roles and exercising their leadership skills at an early age. Regardless of what the data show, Dads, you are one of the most influential figures in a young girl’s life. Help her negotiated roadblocks to her own early leadership experiences. Tell her she can do more than she thinks she can. Your words (txt or spoken) have a lasting influence with her. Use that influence to not only help her, but also change the workplace of the tomorrow!