Empowering Women in Business: Strategies for Inclusion
Efforts are underway to enhance female representation in decision-making roles across various business sectors. According to Flo Scott, chair of the Women’s Business Council for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, many influential groups often overlook women not due to a lack of interest or capability, but because traditional structures were primarily designed without their needs in mind.
To modernize these associations, it is crucial to reconsider how and when gatherings occur. The strategic case for including more working women on boards and at business events is clear: diverse boards perform better and attract wider audiences. This was evident at the Lehigh Valley Women’s Summit in June, which drew over 800 attendees, highlighting the demand for women-centric networking opportunities.
Women often bear the dual burdens of professional commitments and caregiving responsibilities. Many are the primary caregivers for young children, aging parents, or family members with disabilities. These obligations, coupled with rigid work schedules, can hinder their ability to participate in traditional business events. Women in senior leadership positions may enjoy more flexible schedules, yet this does not apply to all employees, particularly those in hourly roles or early in their careers.
Balancing work with family commitments can be particularly challenging for mothers of older children who must navigate a complex array of obligations, from school to extracurricular activities. Ironically, those most adept at managing these responsibilities are often the least represented in leadership roles.
Innovative Solutions for Greater Participation
During her tenure with the Women’s Business Council, Scott has observed that meetings and events scheduled during lunchtime or after work hours often yield higher attendance. These time slots allow both salaried and hourly workers to engage without sacrificing income or stepping away from family responsibilities.
As many employees already anticipate a break during the day, offering events at lunchtime provides a convenient opportunity for participation. Similarly, happy hour gatherings allow parents to arrange childcare, enabling them to attend events without conflict. This approach not only promotes inclusivity but also allows parents to return home in time for family dinner routines.
While in-person meetings foster deep connections, the rise of virtual options has significantly increased accessibility. Providing a Zoom link for meetings can expand participation, especially for working mothers, individuals with limited transportation, or those with health conditions that make travel challenging. As the colder months approach, hybrid formats also help mitigate the risks of illness during gatherings, ensuring continued operational effectiveness for organizations.
Breaking Down Financial Barriers
Cost remains a significant barrier for many potential participants. Membership fees and ticket prices for events are often aligned with corporate budgets, making them inaccessible for entrepreneurs, nonprofit staff, and educators who lack expense accounts. To foster true inclusivity, a mix of events is essential—balancing high-profile functions with casual, low-cost, or free gatherings that encourage new participants to engage.
A prime example of this approach is the upcoming event titled Palette of Possibilities: How Creativity Shapes Solutions, scheduled for September 25, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Easton Area Community Center. This lunchtime gathering will feature networking opportunities, a panel of inspiring women leaders, and a hands-on creative activity designed to energize and engage participants.
These types of events are intentionally crafted to accommodate varying schedules, demonstrating the kind of innovative thinking needed to increase women’s involvement in business leadership.
In summary, enhancing female representation in decision-making spaces requires a strategic shift in how business events and boards operate. By prioritizing accessibility, flexibility, and inclusivity, organizations can harness the talents of women, ultimately leading to stronger and more diverse leadership teams.
