International Women’s Day (IWD), which is observed on March 8th each year, celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
The importance of International Women’s Day lies in its focus on advancing gender equality and women’s rights. This day is a reminder that women have made significant contributions to society throughout history, often in the face of significant obstacles and discrimination.
IWD also highlights the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. This includes addressing issues such as the gender pay gap and the lack of representation of women in leadership roles.
As we celebrate this day, we also want to highlight the importance of building support systems and supporting women in their careers. As Sallie Krawcheck, CEO and Co-Founder of Ellevest, has said, “Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and support you. Your network is your net worth, so invest in building strong relationships.”
Below are just a few ways women (and others) can support women in the workplace.
Mentorship: One of the most effective ways to support other women and help guide them is to be a mentor or build a mentorship program. By sharing your knowledge and experience, offering guidance, and providing opportunities for growth and development, we can help the next generation of women leader’s flourish.
Networking: Build a strong network of women in your industry or field. Attend events, listen to women speakers, connect on LinkedIn, and join professional organizations. This network can provide support, advice, and new opportunities when needed.
Advocacy: Speak up for other women in the workplace. If you see someone being overlooked or undervalued, advocate for them. Use your voice to call attention to gender bias or discrimination. Our voices are louder when we come together on an issue, and even more important, when we listen and believe one another, we can achieve more together.
Celebrate Each Other’s Successes: Celebrate the successes of other women in your workplace and industry. Recognize their achievements, share their accomplishments, and offer your support and congratulations. When we lift each other up, we also pave the path for the next generation to do the same.
There has been some movement in closing the gender gap as more organizations are prioritizing diversity and inclusion and providing more resources for women in our industry, such as mentorship programs and networking groups, which can help to support career and personal development.
In general, International Women’s Day serves as a significant reminder of both the progress made toward gender equality and the work still remaining. While we honor the accomplishments of women throughout history, we must also keep creating networks of support and speaking up for one another in the workplace. We can help pave the path for the next generation of female leaders to succeed by emphasizing mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and sharing in each other’s triumphs. Let’s keep striving for a time when all women are given the chance to prosper and realize their full potential. As we look ahead to the future, let us remember the words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”
For more information on International Women’s Day, head to their website, https://www.internationalwomensday.com/.
