Women’s participation in the economy is critical for its growth. Diversifying the workplace by providing equal opportunities to everyone has been on the agenda for many companies which have chosen to push growth and equality over other factors. It has been estimated that countries lose over $47 billion every year due to poor workplace equality and have been taking up proactive measures in the past decade to bridge this gap. When women are allowed to fulfil their potential, the GDP goes up, and poverty goes down. They bridge the gap and bring about a delicate balance in the structure of the organisation, enforcing holistic development and growth.
Studies show women bosses nurture employees more, create better reward systems, and support flexibility. Females are fundamentally different from males and bring unique demographic skills. Companies in high technology industries and those with unique products which are scarce in the market tend to do better with female CEOs. Success in Research and Development (R&D) is highly prized in these companies, and female directors can shape innovation and sustainable growth strategies. The worldwide gender gap in labor participation dropped from 32 to 26 percentage points between 1980 and 2008, says the World Bank. This is a clear indicator that the world is evolving. However, the cultural, educational, and social barriers enforced upon women still prevent them from being the leaders they deserve to be.
Indra Nooyi, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Leena Nair, Hillary Clinton, Sheryl Sandberg, Melinda Gates, Michelle Obama, and many more have been the constant source of inspiration for young girls who dream of being our future leaders. Their hard work and passion towards proving their mettle by being the best in their field will serve as constant motivation for every dreamer. Every young girl has been told at least once in her life not to be ambitious or take up tough roles that demand her time and energy. It is often emphasized that women should focus more on family and not on her career. This patriarchal mindset of our society continually demotivates them not to take up more leadership roles. Change begins from within; encouraging and supporting them will go a long way in reducing the gender disparity.
