In my presentation tomorrow, Tues Nov 26th for the Brooklyn Institute about what Feminine Leadership can mean for men, I will be talking about the need to re-think the whole nature of work. One of the (many) reasons that senior women drop out of the pipeline of opportunity for promotion that will get them to the top (and potentially Board level where women are currently so under-represented) is the dilemma they face in creating a work / life / family balance. Stepping out of the hot career trajectory can reduce the chances of women getting promoted as they take time out and/or move into a part-time role during the early years when their children are younger. This choice is usually the preserve of women as men forge ahead with an unbroken pattern of good work opportunities and senior positions as they aim for the top.
Today’s issue of Women’s Agenda (a fabulous woman-centric daily news hub based in Australia) had a great story about a senior politician who is stepping down from the cabinet and his leadership position in the Western Australia government. His reason is that he wants to spend more time with his family and children. Hurrah! It is rare for a man, especially one in a reasonably high profile position in public life, to make that decision. Maybe it is slightly more possible in civic political life than it is in a corporation where the young ‘uns are yapping at your heels. Still, the more role models we have for different positive behaviour it opens up the choice and possibilities for everyone else – mothers and fathers. Read more from Georgina Dent’s news story.
