This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias. Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead.
We can break the bias in our communities, in our workplace, in our schools and colleges, as well as breaking the bias together today on International Women’s Day. And while women are top of mind today, we want to ensure we are promoting a safe space for everyone.
https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ gives some great guidance on how to #BreakTheBias, read on to find out what some of our team said when talking about IWD!
What does IWD mean to you?
“It is a celebration of the battles we’ve won, progress made, and a reminder to appreciate those who have sacrificed for us throughout history. It’s celebration of my freedom in being allowed to work alongside everyone – regardless of gender, race or sexuality”
“This an important day round the world to celebrate the achievements that woman have made across the world and promoting how woman can have successful careers and bring as many qualities to work as any other!”
“It’s about celebrating the progress we have made, and looking forward to see what else we can do.”
What progress have you seen on gender equality in your life?
“When I started working, I received a Starter Pack (as per usual), however the women were also issued with a “dress code” written by men. It encouraged investing time in hair and make-up (with a list of do’s and don’ts) as well as encouraging wearing high heels and skirts. Today, I work from home and sometimes wear my slippers under the desk! The difference is that feel appreciated for my brain and hard work, rather than my image.”
“Since then, education has improved, in HR we have moved a lot further forward with this, the media has proven to be so important in this area driving new ways of thinking particularly in the younger generation. Discrimination laws are getting tighter, pay gender and equality awareness and requirements for reporting are growing. People now have a sense of right and wrong which they perhaps didn’t have 20 years ago.”
“People are more aware of issues that perhaps, weren’t at the forefront of discussion a number of years ago. This means it’s becoming more common to discuss and address issues that may have previously been ignored.”
What’s the most important piece of career advice you’d give to a woman starting her career?
“Networking and doing your homework about businesses and area you want to work in are really important nowadays. Think how many roles are offered to people who know people. Use your connections to get on the ladder and expand your horizons reaching out to businesses further afield – post COVID you can do anything anywhere.”
“Don’t wait for someone to offer you a seat at the big table. If needed, bring your own chair.”
“Don’t be afraid to reach high. Push yourself and your boundaries and don’t be afraid of setbacks. They are learning opportunities!”
What do you enjoy most about working at IMS?
“I appreciate the opportunities – and the laughter with my awesome team”
“There are always things going on, we are always looking for how we can make things better, more efficient and looking at wide range of propositions for growth”
“The open and friendly nature of every single person in the business. Titles don’t matter when it comes to conversation, and I’ve never worked anywhere before, where it’s as common to be speaking to the CTO as it is to the person sitting next to you.”
We are proud of our people and the constant drive for innovation and making a difference.
