I work with a number of women at the church where I serve, almost 50% of the team is made up of women. I’m however sad to say that not 50% are included in leadership. Only about 30%. The importance of the inclusion and recognition of women in the work place is an imperative and not an option.
As a leader I will foster recognition and a sense of belonging for women in the work place in the following ways;
- Affirm and reward excellent work done. I will be quick to recognize, affirm and reward excellent work done by the team. This will motivate the women on the team to feel included and equally recognized for their efforts.
2.Punish and reprimand behavior that seeks to exclude and marginalize women. Men are usually predisposed to be more demeaning and less respectful to their female colleagues. I will make sure that I make it explicitly clear that we will treat everybody and especially the ladies on the team with utmost respect and not any stereotypical fashion. And those that fail to adhere to this instruction will be reprimanded and sometimes punished. It is important for people to know that this is a serious matter and they should carry it with the weight it deserves.
- Create an environment of belonging. Most work environments favor men. For example most work places don’t have facilities to help young mothers on the team be able to work as they take care of their babies at work. I would create for a case like this some kind of nursery to help breast feeding moms to be able to catch up with their kids during breaks at work. I will foster an environment where women feel like they belong to the family, because they actually do belong.