International Women’s Day Q&A – Leah Mason
This International Women’s Day we interviewed Leah Mason, Consultant on her advice, challenges and what she is grateful for.
Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
To keep highlighting the inequality that women face within society and bring attention to really important issues surrounding women’s health, safety, career development, and happiness (to name a few!)
What motivates you professionally?
A lot of Manager positions within recruitment are held by men, so I am determined to progress in my career and join the few women at the top to show other women that you can do it!
What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?
Accessible childcare. Although as a society we have made great strides towards equality, many women still shoulder the burden of childcare, often taking a break from employment for an extended period of time to care for children or working part-time to accommodate childcare. This gap in employment causes women to be ‘left behind’ as their male counterparts continue to progress to manager positions, with many workplaces deeming women ‘unsuitable’ for these roles due to their outside of work commitments.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
“Anyone can run downhill, but not everyone can run uphill”.
How can men get more involved?
I think acknowledging the disadvantages that women face in their chosen profession and actively engage in programs to help combat this. Change starts from the top!
What message do you think is the most important to young women starting their careers?
Speak up and don’t give up. Your opinions, ideas, and experiences are valid, and you bring an incredible perspective to whatever role you undertake. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!
Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?
It’s well researched that excluding the female point of view when making business decisions can be detrimental. I recommend anyone to read ‘Inivisble Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Cridado Perez’ to showcase just how important diversity in the workplace is.
If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Lillian Disney, Taylor Swift, Michelle Obama – I think there would be lots of different perspectives to learn from, all from different stages of history!
