Women in Business: Why Exclusionary Practices Hurt Us All
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Chapter 1: The Conference Experience
After spending two full days navigating the conference floor, engaging in small talk, and polishing my elevator pitch, I could feel my mental energy depleting. I was on the verge of burnout, but I stayed receptive to fresh ideas. The event primarily focused on technological advancements. In the center, a small stage hosted a discussion featuring two women who addressed the need for increased female representation in tech. About thirty attendees were seated in tidy rows, watching the "fireside chat." I positioned myself at the back, opting for a more observational role.
The executive being interviewed proudly proclaimed the number of women she had advanced to executive roles. The audience applauded. It's fantastic to witness such progress, and I wholeheartedly support it. However, once the interview concluded, and two additional women executives took the stage, I decided it was time to leave.
"Would you like to take a seat?" one member inquired, but her tone came off as more of a command. "No, I'm fine," I responded, turning to walk away. She appeared perplexed but quickly shifted her attention to the woman beside me. "Would you like to TAKE A SEAT?"
I then explored their booth and scrutinized the details. I'm adept at uncovering hidden information, relishing the opportunity to see what remains unnoticed.
The findings left me disheartened: Executives Only. The group exclusively caters to women already in executive roles, leaving no room for freelancers or those in lower-tier positions. As a self-employed writer, I found myself excluded. The requirement for membership is to hold top-tier positions within large corporations.
While I understand the importance of networking within similar job roles, it raises an important question: How can we expect to elevate more women into leadership positions if we only permit executives to join? Why not broaden the scope to include women from various career stages?
Unfortunately, most women's groups consist of executives networking with fellow executives. But what if these organizations welcomed women in management or those in supporting roles? This way, established leaders could interact with a diverse array of individuals, which is the essence of networking, right?
Before I departed, I took one last look at their booth and noticed a flashy enter-to-win promotion featuring a large QR code. I stood there, momentarily stunned, before shaking my head in disbelief. I was going to need another cup of coffee to digest this absurdity.
Chapter 1.1: The Unwanted Giveaway
The promotion was for a pink, puffy designer handbag. Seriously? I nearly fell over laughing, my eyeliner running as a result. Who thought this was a suitable giveaway? Does anyone really believe that a pink purse would attract women? What decade are we in?
I'd much prefer a free laptop, a year of Wi-Fi, a vacation, or even a cup of coffee over a pink, puffy handbag. It was evident this group was not designed for someone like me. The message was clear: I wasn’t welcome.
I often wonder about the thought process behind these marketing decisions. Who thought a pink purse would drive sign-ups? It’s bewildering.
Even though I’m no longer tied to a corporate job by a W-2, the weight of corporate culture still looms large, infiltrating every aspect of life. Surrounded by thousands, I felt like a zebra among a herd of white horses.
Chapter 1.2: The Keynote Dilemma
Attending these events solo only magnifies the isolation inherent in freelance writing. Occasionally, I meet some amazing people, but often I find myself listening to keynote speeches from the back of the room, leaving feeling less inspired than when I arrived.
Every conference visit brings the same desire: to hear from those who offer new perspectives. How can we simplify processes for consumers? Currently, shopping feels like a grueling race against the clock.
How can we restore joy to the shopping experience? The current in-store atmosphere mimics online shopping and is far from pleasant. If I wanted the experience of an Amazon warehouse, I’d shop online.
Who is innovating? Who stands for something meaningful rather than just profit? There are forward-thinking companies out there that are capturing new audiences. Consumers today crave brands that take a stand instead of remaining silent.
Chapter 2: Rethinking Women's Groups
Let's revolutionize how we approach conferences and reshape our women's groups. We should include women who are not necessarily executives—those who don’t want a pink handbag, like entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, artists, and freelancers who bring a fresh perspective.
We must move away from rehearsed speeches about the "customer journey" and "seamless technology." Let’s discuss failures and the lessons learned. Share new stories. That could spark real innovation. I would eagerly write about it.
Until that day arrives, I’ll continue to show up with an open mind, seeking like-minded individuals. But I’ll be dressed in all black, paired with a slouchy handbag, thank you very much.
Based in Southern California, Kit Campoy is a former retail leader turned freelance writer. She covers Retail, Leadership, and Business. Join her weekly resistance, The Voice of the Frontline.
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