2. What is the best and worst decision you’ve ever made? The best decision was taking time out from my corporate job 1 year after my breast cancer diagnosis to focus on my health and doing the things I love. It’s so easy to get caught up in day-to-day priorities and forget about the bigger and the things that really matter. This time helped me discover what it is that truly lights me up inside and create a clear vision for what I want my future to look like. There is no such thing as a bad decision. The most important lessons we learn are often from the mistakes we make. It’s all life experience and it’s what we learn from them that shapes who we are and how we move forward.

3. Now that women can and are expected to ‘have it all’, how have you coped with the work / life balance?

I don’t think that women are expected to ‘have it all’, I think that’s an expectation we place on ourselves.

I think balance is something we are continually striving for and I’m not sure there’s a perfect formula. I’m often guilty at putting far too much pressure on myself, but I am getting better at recognising this and shifting priorities if I am feeling overwhelmed, because there is nothing more important than my health and wellbeing. It’s a constantly evolving process – learning what works for me at that point in time, paying attention to how I’m feeling and tweaking things as I go.

4. How has having breast cancer changed your outlook on being a woman?

I came out of my breast cancer experience relatively unscathed, but it has certainly given me an appreciation for aspects of my femininity that I previously took for granted.

It has changed my outlook on life in general, more so than being a woman. I can genuinely say that I now have a more positive outlook on my life as a result of my breast cancer experience and I am grateful for the perspective it has given me. It has inspired me to do things I wouldn’t have dreamed of otherwise, given me the courage to take risks. It’s brought me closer to the people in my life and made me realise how much I have to be thankful for. It’s also helped me learn to live in the present rather than worrying about the past or the future.

5. When things get tough, how do you keep yourself going? I’m an optimist. Life’s challenges shape who we are and they shape our hearts and minds for what is to come, so I keep going with the belief that things will only get better.  The power of a positive mind cannot be underestimated.

6. What was the best bit of advice you were given when you were starting out?

“Doubt killed more dreams than failure ever will.” The voice of doubt will always be there, but the more you act upon your intuition and the things that light you up inside, the smaller that voice will become. Learn to ignore it or turn the volume down so it doesn’t interrupt the flow of your life.

7.  Can you leave us with a quote that inspires you?

It is so important to be surrounded by the right people, so I particularly love this one by Wilferd Peterson:

“Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers, the successful people with their heads in the clouds and their feet on the ground.” – Wilferd Peterson

The post Zara D’Cotta Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

I didn’t really have one.  I wanted to be a doctor until I realised I was way too squeamish.  And then I discovered engineering, so that kept me pretty focused.  I did apply to be an astronaut, though, so maybe that was secretly it!

2. What is the best and worst decision you’ve ever made?

Best decision – saying yes when my now husband asked me on our first date.  Worst decision – gosh, that’s a tough one.  Like most people I’ve made lots of stupid decisions in my time.  I try and move forwards, not backwards, so I don’t spend too much time dwelling on past errors.  Financially it was probably selling our London house when we moved to Edinburgh!

3. What has it meant for your career to be part of the WEF’s Young Global Leader initiative?

The YGL community is marvellous – eclectic, inclusive, inspirational.  The direct career impact is relatively intangible.  More important is the sense of shared values and a desire to help others in that community – it feels a supportive and welcoming group.

4. Have you been aware of a ‘glass ceiling’? If so how have you tackled it?

The numbers are pretty compelling – whether a glass ceiling or a sticky floor, it is still tougher for many women to progress than for many men.  I feel I have generally been lucky in my career in that I have come across relatively few managers who have been unable to see further than my gender in assessing my competency.  Some women are sadly less lucky.  My advice to women caught in that situation is move quickly.  Don’t imagine you can fix it.  But what you can do potentially is fix it for the next person, so I like to remind women to make sure they are fair and balanced with their own direct reports.  It’s a sad fact that studies show men and women suffer from the same subconscious biases around gender.

5. What part do you think the media has in maintaining the ‘Gender Gap’?  What should they be doing differently?

The media is not only a mirror reflecting society.  It also informs society.  Giving an equal share of voice to men and women as spokespeople or “experts” is one tangible thing it can do to help.  Another is through the images it uses – think of all those scantily clad women!  A third is around how women are described in articles: frequently they are defined by their relationship to a man (mother, grandmother, wife, daughter) rather than simply allowed to “be”. And, finally, challenging the number of stories where women are portrayed as victims rather  than for their achievements.

6. Now that women can and are expected to ‘have it all’, how have you coped with the work / life balance?

I think of it as “work/life integration”. Balance suggests they are in opposition whereas I think they are mutual supportive: I work to support my family and my family supports me in my work.  I accept I can’t be everywhere, so I try to focus on whatever I am doing to the best of my ability, whether watching the school play or chairing an investment meeting. I try not to agonise, I try to keep commitments when I make them, and I try never to take any part of my support system for granted.

7. When things get tough, how do you keep yourself going?

Stay calm, don’t overreact and never lose your sense of humour.

8. What was the best bit of advice you were given when you were starting out?

Have an answer to the question that you hope no one will ask you.

9. What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?

I think many of them believe that inequality ended when women got the vote (which of course is still not the case in some places). There are still inequalities and they will still need to battle to overcome them.

10. Do you notice any differences in the way women and men work? If so what implications does this have for a wider view of women’s capability in the workplace?

I don’t see many generic differences – there are more differences between men and men and women and women than between the sexes in aggregate.  However, women on average do have a more measured attitude to risk, and they do seem to have less of a disposition to crime, if you look at prison poulation! There is still a perception, however, that skill for skill women are less competent. We see this in research which shows women are promoted on performance (ie they have to demonstrate factually that they HAVE done something) whereas men are more likely to be promoted on potential (ie they don’t have to demonstrate they HAVE done something, only that they have the potential to do it.)  This is an example of a subconscious bias we need to work to overcome.

11. What is the most effective way you have seen women support each other in the workplace?

Networks that help women share their experience and develop business contacts are powerful.  However, the most powerful thing women can do is be a sponsor for other good women.  Fight on their behalf to get them that great role.  Suggest them to the headhunter when they call.  Look at the women in your own team and make sure you are helping them realise their full potential.

12. Should the government intervene in altering the gender dynamics of the UK workplace? If so what initiatives should they put in place?

Increased transparency of gender split at every level in an organisation is helpful, because it forces the organisation to reflect on biases it may not be aware it had.  The government could also consider erasures such as gender blind CVs, mandatory advertising (even if only internally) before new senior appointments are made and targeted gender split of long and short lists for external hires. More childcare support for working parents would also have a dramatic and positive effect, as would better elder care support.

13. Do you support the use of quotas to bring more women into positions of leadership?

The debate on targets versus quotas is irrelevent. It’s really playing with semantics.  It doesn’t matter what you call it because the effect is the same if we know the direction of travel.

14. What would you like to see change for the next generation of women at work?

We’ve touched on many of things that will help, but the biggest change I would like to see is a societal one. Toys should just be toys; there are no “girl” or “boy” subjects at school; and most importantly, girls and young women should not have to fear a higher level of public criticism and comment than their male peers on any aspect of their appearance or achievements.

15. Can you leave us with a quote that inspires you?

I think this quote from Mother Teresa is a good reminder that we all have the power to change the world, even if only in a small way, for the people around us:  “Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.”

16. … Is there anything else you would like to add?

I love this very sound piece of advice from Carl Sagan.  “It pays to keep an open mind, but not so open that your brains fall out.” I’ve found it useful in my career more than once!

The post Anne Richards Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

1. What motivates you to succeed?

The fact that thousands of people want my job certainly is a kick up the bum! That, and I’ve been ‘in between’ jobs before. It’s always good to stay busy even if work isn’t.

2. How did you get your foot into the industry?

I did a nation-wide audition for the Australian music channel, Channel [V]. I made it into the top 3 and had enough exposure to keep going for it as much as possible.

3. What advice do you have for women hesitant about their own abilities?

OWN THEM! Whatever you think makes you different is the best thing about you! Claim your imperfections, mishaps and traits. Break the mold.

4. How do you feel women can support other women in business?

By stop seeing everyone as a threat. So often people would keep contacts to themselves, wish someone a good luck without meaning it or hope that they fail. We’re in this together – if you want help then you must be willing to give help.

5. What top tip would you give to a woman trying to drive their career forward?

Have a plan B, especially in my industry. There’s so many new faces and people get replaced at the drop of a hat – always have your own back.

6. In your field do you see a culture-change taking place in the industry?

Absolutely. I think with global communication being at our fingertips, culture is more fluid and represented than ever.

7. Is the glass ceiling getting easier or more difficult to break through?

There are still so many cases of unequal pay between males and females. I saw a coffee shop charging men more for a cup. “If you earn more, you can pay more”.

8. Do you think women celebrate their own successes enough or is there a need to highlight more in what they are achieving?

Not nearly enough! The competitive nature with women mean that even if you’re utterly successful you can’t talk about it for fear of being ‘up yourself’. Success should be celebrated!

9. As a successful business women in Australia, how do you think we can inspire and support more women in their careers?

Recognition. Using the abundance of social media to publicly congratulate someone on their achievements, widening and strengthening the positive impact.

10. What is the best thing about your job and the worst thing?

The best is getting paid to travel the globe so I can watch movies before they’re released to interview the leading actors in them. The worst is needing to comment on the personal lives of celebrities. I find it invasive.

11. Who is the most inspiring female you have met in the industry?

I’ve been saying this for years and no one has knocked her off her perch yet – Cameron Diaz. I’ve never met anyone so up for something! Nothing was a problem. No diva antics in sight! She was friendly, inspiring and had no qualms about letting me teach her how to burp (when I hosted Nickelodeon).

12. Do you think women can have it all or do you think it’s a myth?

Most of me wants to believe that women can have it all – but a demanding career and a family is super hard work. I had 2 siblings and both my parents worked full-time. Even in a solid marriage, it still impacted the amount of time they spent at home with us, and that’s detrimental growing up.

13. What is the most inspiring quote you have heard?

Do or do not, there is no try. Thanks Yoda.

14. What do you do to unwind after a long day?

I’m an avid video gamer, so I’ll play my Xbox.

15. What are your sources of inspiration?

The celebrity women I meet in the entertainment industry who have retained their sense of self and integrity, and are completely down to earth in a way that reminds you that they’re still a person.

The post Maude Garrett Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

1.       What motivates you to succeed?

Doing something that I love doing. For example, if I have an idea I want to try and make it happen, I want to prove to myself that I can do it.  I think the final sense of fulfillment allows me to take that journey to succeed.  That sense of pride and self-satisfaction.

2.       Where do you think the opportunities for women in business lie in the future?

Entrepreneurship, I suggest this only because you can then choose your times that you work, and it allows flexibility for women to be captain of their own ship, and write their own destiny.  As an entrepreneur you can choose when you work and how you work, which can suit women quite well.  Then again, that also applies to big companies; women need to find a way they can incorporate a flexible working life with their family commitment.   Big companies also need to address the work life balance for women, as it is often women who opt out of working as they contemplate how they are to juggle all their demands. It is nice to see however the advancements with technology enable women to work from home and succeed in big corporations.

3.       What advice do you have for women who are hesitant in their own abilities

I think we can be our own worst enemy as women, we doubt ourselves. I don’t think anyone has full confidence about their abilities, but if you just go for it, your passion or business idea, and immerse yourself in it you can surprise yourself.

My motto is ‘leap and the net will appear’ and I think once you take a leap, you say to yourself you can do it! Your confidence increases by a percent everyday from then. You don’t want to sit around pondering that you want to do it, you must go and do it! That’s what I do.

4.       How do you feel women can support other women in business?

I think what we need is more role models, I don’t think women need any direct support, but just some role models that young women can look up to. I think as long as girls can believe that whatever they want they can achieve. I think that’s all you can really do.  If there is enough women role models for young girls to look up to then they will be inspired to achieve their goals, at least it will set the groundwork.  If women share their stories and share their secrets that is a good start.

5.       What top tip would you give to women who are trying to drive their career forward?

Be authentic, be genuine, stick to what you like doing and always play to your strengths.

6.       Is the glass ceiling getting easier or more difficult to break through? Have you noticed any changes between now and ten years ago?

For me, I have never had to see the glass ceiling so to speak.  I have been told by people, who are on great authority, that it is there, but I have not seen it in my career.  I think there was a glass ceiling 20 years ago and 30 years ago, but I think now it really no longer there.

7.       Who inspires you and why?

Every single person in my life I get my inspiration from. I see inspiration in things all around me. I might go and see a movie and get inspired by a character in it. Sometimes the articles I read, if a new shop opens, these are all sources of my inspiration. I have been really lucky to have a courageous role model in my mother who is my mentor; she has encouraged and inspired me to achieve my goals. Constant forms of inspiration are everywhere and that’s a good thing. I don’t believe you need one role model or one mentor, I think you can take a little bit of everything you see and these can piece together your dream.

8.       Do you think women celebrate their own successes enough? Or is there a need to highlight more in what they are achieving?

I think women don’t celebrate it enough, things are quite different now then how they were ten to fifteen years ago.  Again there is a lot of that talk about glass ceilings and ‘what’s wrong, why aren’t there enough women in business or on boards?’ there is not enough talk of the women who actually do succeed in business. I think in a way we need to put more inspiration on women who are doing it, achieving their goals. We need to share their stories. Women are achieving goals throughout the country and it is great to see.

9.       What are the top three initiatives you think the Government could do for women who want to succeed in business?

Top three initiatives would be the same they have for men, ie: tax breaks for starting a business, low National Insurance for hiring people and less red tape to make it easier to start a business. There is no real difference in these for women or men. The one specific for women would be subsidising child care. Child care is extremely expensive in this country and I think this is a worthwhile investment for women if they can subsidise it or make it tax deductible will make it worthwhile for women to re-enter the workforce by having that option there as a relief and not a financial burden.

10.   What is the biggest hurdle you have overcome as a business owner?

Getting people to buy my product can be seen as a hurdle, introducing something new to the world. In all honesty, having a business and seeing it from an idea to fruition is a series of hurdles that you need to overcome.  There isn’t just one hurdle; there is a series that you overcome.  The journey is overcoming the hurdles.

11.   What is the most inspiring quote you have heard?

“Leap and the net will appear” – John Burroughs (American Naturalist)

And another one I absolutely love is

“Do your best and let God do the rest” – Ben Carson

That was one my dad used to say

12.   What are your sources of inspiration?

I have a series of inspirational books and self-help books; these are always accessible on my Kindle. If my mind is feeling a bit negative I will turn to one of these books that bring be back on track. Living life is an inspiration. Sources of inspiration come from images on the internet, movies I see, books I read, conversations I have.  They are endless.

My mind has a recording light; you can’t control what goes in and what will inspire you. Sometimes it can be the oddest thing that comes up with the greatest inspiration.

13.   What is your favourite coffee?

Skinny late. I cannot start my day without it.

The post Sahar Hashemi Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

1. What motivates you to succeed?

In the short term, loving what I do and a respect and belief in those I work with and in what we are building in Secret Me. The pleasure of seeing other people’s excitement of, passion for and growth from Secret Me. From the first moment my clients get in a helicopter on a weekend to seeing their personal development, seeing them push their limits and seeing what they can be capable of throughout the weekend. Secret Me was designed to create a safe and trusted space where clients can learn personal security and also play with their identities and enjoy themselves doing it- the pursuit of excellence for us is providing this better every time. I have a drive that is in all entrepreneurs to create, build and grow, myself and those around me.

2. Where do you think the opportunities for women in business lie in the future?

There are certainly areas that are more male dominated that women are yet to break into, but I think the opportunities are whatever we imagine for ourselves. I don’t believe there are any boundaries in what we can achieve.

3. What advice do you have for women hesitant about their own abilities?

Believe in yourself. No one will invest their trust or confidence in you if you cannot invest it in yourself. Develop your skill base, learn and increase your knowledge to increase your confidence – In the words of Oscar Wilde “The only way to atone for being occasionally a little over-dressed is by being always absolutely over-educated.” Get a mentor.

4. How do you feel women can support other women in business?

Mentor them, be a mentee to one. Help each other as we network and close deals. Build the other women you meet in business, don’t knock them down. There are many clubs and networks, like Areté Club, that are great for bringing together women in similar positions or with complimentary businesses to meet and hopefully collaborate together.

5. What top tip would you give to a woman trying to drive their career forward?

Take credit for what you do, it has been shown in recent studies that women generally take less credit for their involvement in group projects when in a group with men. 
Aside from that, be confident, give credit where it is due, and build real relationships with people from all walks of life.

6. In your field do you see a culture-change taking place in the boardroom?

Not so much. I am very lucky with those I am surrounded by and their attitudes. I think chief executives tend to seek out people like themselves so I don’t really see a man or woman just a capable person and someone I would like in my life or not. It wouldn’t surprise me when more women found companies or reach chief executive level that is when women would be are far better represented on boards. I’d like to see more successful women across all industries.

7. Is the glass ceiling getting easier or more difficult to break through? Any changes between now and ten years ago?

I think easier as the world is becoming better connected. There is now nobody you can’t get access to and so many more platforms for support such as, Areté Club, entrepreneur communities such as ICE or Sandbox, and so forth.

8. Who inspires you and why?

People in the world around me – every little gesture of humanity, kindness, hope, toughness, friendship, tackling problems head on, and experiencing adventures. Acts of bravery and love are everywhere to be seen. Life is about the memories we take away with us.

9. Do you think women celebrate their own successes enough or is there a need to highlight more in what they are achieving?

I think in the UK we generally don’t celebrate successes and failures enough. I would love opportunities to champion more successful people and to meet more inspirational and interesting women and men.

10. In your eyes, do you feel there is an opportunity to do more off the back of the Davies Report to progress women’s careers?

I believe in being brought into a project, a business, or a board based on performance. That being said, I think more women should lift and promote other women around themselves including cross-industry and cross-company mentoring. We can promote more women in non-executive and executive directorship roles.

11. What are the top three initiatives you feel the Government could do for women who want to succeed in business?

– Coaching, mentoring and sponsoring schemes

– Help gain access to influencers on an international basis

– Promote business skills from younger ages in schools, colleges and universities

– Find ways to encourage company leaders to bring women on as directors (both executive and non-executive)

12. What are the top three ways you feel the Government could support and push corporates who want to attract and help more women prosper into their business?

– A welfare system that supports women getting back to work after having children and managing a work-life balance

– Personal development grants in partnership with workplaces – management/ leadership courses, etc.

– Tighter control on airbrushing, celebrity trolling, and gratuitously portrayed women in advertising and the media. Many young women are let to believe that their success can be measured in pounds and kilograms. Not only does overzealous airbrushing and obsessive tracking of the size and weight of ‘peers’ in the media undermine women’s confidence, it also objectifies women in the eyes of both men and women. The idea women being predominantly ornamental is a damaging one and we all need to change this if we are to inspire the young women today to become leaders in business and politics tomorrow.

13. As a successful business woman and owner in the UK, how do you think we can inspire and support more women in their careers?

The same as what I have written above. Support, champion, promote, connect, advise.

14. If we succeed and support women in business productively, how would you like to see the landscape change in 5 years? Please state any thoughts from the boardroom to investments in female businesses.

I would like to see better women-to-women networking, collaborations, investments, and business.

15. What is the most inspiring quote you have heard?

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did so. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

16. What are your sources of inspiration?

Exactly the same as question 8. The world around me – every little gesture of humanity, kindness, hope, toughness, friendship, tackling problems head on, and experiencing adventures. Acts of bravery and love are everywhere to be seen. Life is about the memories we take away with us.

The post Sara Fazlali Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

Martha is now an active member in the House of Lords as the UK’s Digital Champion and a non-executive board member at Marks & Spencers which leaves her with little time to herself. However, she wouldn’t have it any other way and as Baroness Lane-Fox of Soho (the hyphen being a non-negotiable condition of House of Lords membership), Martha is one of the youngest women in the upper chamber.

An inspiration to many women, Martha Lane Fox spoke with the ACN about what motivates her in business.

1. What motivates you to succeed?

Different things personally now having done all the things I have been lucky enough to do has allowed me to meet some very interesting people that I may have otherwise not met. I enjoy meeting people with different talents and engaging in conversation that allows for different views. Listening to other people motivates me as well as being part in items with a social purpose.

2. Where do you think the opportunities for women in business lie in the future?

I think that we haven’t even begun to see the potential power for women that women have yet to completely unlock their full potential. Increasing education in developing countries will give women in those countries an opportunity to succeed, getting women from around the world engaged in work and learning is important. I believe if we can give women equal opportunities as the fundamental stepping stone we will all have a very rosy future….as long as we keep shouting that equality is important.

3. What advice do you have for women hesitant about their own abilities?

If it’s any consolation even the women who appear to be most confident can sometimes be hesitant in their own abilities. Everyone battles inner demons and confidence can sometimes be one of these. I might appear confident with all that I have accomplished, but I just wake up and switch my brain on to confident daily. There has been many times where I have been in a room, and there will be many women in the same position, it is important that you do not get overwhelmed by nerves and that you realise, whether it be a boardroom full of men, that you have every right to be there, you have the right to be heard and have a voice, always be forthright and don’t apologise for speaking your mind. An important piece of advice I can give you is that no matter who you are you have something valuable to contribute so make sure you believe in yourself.

4. How do you feel women can support other women in business?

All women whether successful or not should help women, whether it’s your own peer network, or your business group, always talk and keep the motion of communication open. It’s important to communicate, set a good example, do the right thing and in turn you can inspire other people. Within your networks keep them diverse and mixed. I have teams from all walks of life and they all bring something new to the table. .

5. What top tip would you give to a woman trying to drive their career forward?

I’ve never really had any far plan ahead, but I have made an effort to increase my network , be open-minded, not so much networking through conferences, but if I genuinely want to get to know someone I may invite them for a tea at my home. I also think it is important to keep your mind stimulated. Read, look around and be engaged and interested with your networks, peers and life in general. Never stop learning is a key to driving your career forward. I am a fan of TED talks, they are inspiring. My top tip is to constantly keep learning! And do it with a smile.

6. In your field do you see a culture-change taking place in the boardroom?

I think there is a funny dual thing about this. I think there is a lot of noise out there in the media and the internet about shifts happening, but I don’t believe in the slightest it is happening at the scale that is being broadcasted. I think it’s important for the FTSE 100 companies to ensure that more women come in not just in the board room, but in executive and non-executive roles. I think it is important to keep a sharp eye on the topic.

7. Is the glass ceiling getting easier or more difficult to break through? Any changes between now and ten years ago?

Not sure actually, I think that the data isn’t very encouraging, I think that one hand there is more positive role models through technology and engagement, however equal pay is still not being addressed . I think it’s good to see more female models, such as the Forbes Powerful Women’s list. There have definitely been advancements with women over a decade however more can be done.

8. Who inspires you and why?

Funny people, usually not the people you would imagine inspire me. I surround myself with some really extraordinary friends who are doing wonderful things. I like sharing their stories and seeing what they are up to and how we can all work together to inspire each other. I have one good friend, Shauneen Lambe, who started a cause called Just For Kids Law which is a charity providing legal support, advice and representation to young people who find themselves in difficulty. Her efforts have seen a law overturned in the judicial system which is impressive. She works incredibly hard and is a huge inspiration even though she is far away. I also have to say my mother, she is a working mum who inspires me and reminds me to stay on my toes while also keeping me grounded. Even when I go to the movies I get inspired by some fictional characters, they usually have a message.

9. In your eyes, do you feel there is an opportunity to do more off the back of the Davies Report to progress women’s careers?

Yes I think there needs to be more focus on it. What’s interesting is that there is hype about it but nobody talks about it with any real stories. I believe the key steps for women to succeed now is to implement cultural balance way back in the classroom. The classroom allows for some kind of quality back in the education system. The Davies Report is only one part of the whole picture I think.

10. What are the top three initiatives you feel the government could do for women who want to succeed in business?

I don’t have a top three policy; it’s partly to do with the government, but also companies themselves, and their policies. Governments must lead by example and hopefully this will make companies look at how they do business and if there is a base for women to succeed.

11. What are the top three ways you feel the government could support and push corporates who want to attract and help more women prosper into their business?

I don’t think government can do that much. They can set challenges, and show the economic benefits of what corporates and businesses can gain from females in companies, but ultimately it comes down to the company itself and whether they want to take on board the findings and comments the government make on the matter. If a company wants to continue in a backwards fashion there is really nothing the government can do?

The Government can highlight issues, create networks to address these issues and broadcast as much as they would like, however true change is up to the corporates and what is already deeply structured within their sector and how they have been operating.

12. If we succeed and support women in business productively, how would you like to see the landscape change in 5 years? Please state any thoughts from the boardroom to investments in female businesses.

I would like to see more equality and more clarity in pay. No matter whether you are a female CEO or a female factory worker you should be paid equally to your male counterparts. It’s not a complicated concept yet for some reason it is not being addressed. I believe if proper equality is in place this will make for a more interesting and balanced workforce and in turn a balanced economy.

13. What is the most inspiring quote you have heard?

I like a quote from Goethe – “The boldness has genius power and magic in it”

The post Martha Lane Fox Interview appeared first on ACN – Accelerating Change Network.

“Always include men in discussions in empowering women. Powerful men led the way and became mentors, ironically.”

Annette spoke about the men she worked for in the early part of her career, who empowered her to seek higher ground. They allowed her to move into their networks and move forward into her own. She says that if men embrace what you’re doing, more will happen.

“Sponsoring is another thing and we don’t do this enough.”

Annette said that as women we need to do more than just mentor other women and that we don’t do enough sponsoring. Boys’ ‘networks’ do it all the time so why don’t we? She urged everyone to pick up the phone and sponsor and at the same time not to be afraid of asking for sponsorship.

“Failure is also part of success.”

Annette said that if you understand that you can really move forward. If you fail, have a big smile on your face and then reinvent yourself – that is the American way.

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Attendees from across a number of industries came to hear Annette talk about her own inspirational story, the value of building sponsorship programmes to help promote women in business and how the approach to women in business varies across cultures.

If you would like to find out more about the ACN, nominate a potential spokesperson or interviewee, or would simply like to attend a future meeting, please contact us at info@the-acn.com.

 For those who attended, please click this link for a short survey to make ACN even more engaging – ACN SURVEY ANNETTE RICHARDSON 

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1.  Why is it important that woman succeed in business?

Despite status quo statistics—women earn 75% of what men earn; women hold only 15% of Corporate Executive (C-level) positions in the U.S.—and a challenging economy, the almost-constant changes to the way we communicate, interact, innovate and do business today are setting up an opportunity-filled future for women. Why? Because the qualities that are valued in today’s socially driven culture come naturally to most women. The rise in social media and most importantly a growing appreciation for collaboration, participation, relationship-building, engagement and a commitment to the greater good, have created a perfect storm for entrepreneurial and enterprising women. These qualities are at the very heart of what women do best. Women simply have to be willing to reach out and grab the coming opportunities.

2.  Do women bring to business something men don’t?

Absolutely. Academic research shows that women bring fresh valuable perspectives to company policy, strategic decisions and social sensitivity based on their different experiences.  A combination, which leads to higher group performance, is what women bring.  Shortly after Iceland’s 2009 descent into financial chaos, the Icelandic people decided it was time for change and replaced their male prime minister with a woman called Johanna Sigurdardottir. An elegant 68-year-old, Sigurdardottir’s accession to power was heralded with a spate of articles about Iceland’s strong females. Women, we were told, were “cleaning up the men’s mess” (Spiegel). They were “leading the rescue” (Guardian). Most impressively, perhaps, they would “save banking” (BBC). Traditional business cultures are based on the military model with authoritarian values and a rigid hierarchy. As more organizations move to a more open, informal, democratic model, “being raised as a man is no longer an advantage” says John Naisbitt, author of Megatrends. I agree.

3.  What motivates you to succeed?

I have been a widow and a single mother since the age of 27. Braving personal challenges while successfully balancing life and building a career, has always been top of mind. I have a daughter and my primary concern, like so many women, was providing for her needs and being a role model. It has always been and continues to be my main motivation.

4.  What advice do you have for women hesitant about their own abilities?

Trust yourself and the rest will follow. I encourage young women I mentor to look within and use their innate qualities to be successful, qualities that have never been more relevant than now with the rise in social networking and the changes it’s bringing to the way we do business.

5.  Do women do enough to help other women in business?

I think there is a greater sense of gender unity. Women have a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who came before them. As a result, women are in a better position to pressure male dominated businesses to implement change. There are many organizations around the world today helping women and girls affirm their identities, develop and enhance their skills and protect their rights. It is not a universal attitude yet, but we are moving in the right direction.

6.  What top tip would you give to a woman trying to get ahead?

Get line experience. Be yourself. Communicate and develop a working style that is appreciated by your peers – men and women alike. Make choices. Honour the female advantage.

7.  Do you see a culture change taking place in the boardroom?

Very slowly.  Only 21 Fortune 500 companies have female CEOs, which represents only 4.2%. It’s not quite time to pop the champagne just yet. Women are often mentored well enough, but not adequately sponsored, as a result men are more likely to be promoted. Although, data shows that businesses that have more women on their executive boards tend to get better results and women are often seen as being more wary of risk than men — a quality that is increasingly valued in the post-financial crisis world.

8.  Who inspires you and why?

I believe behaviour change stems from activism. I am profoundly inspired by gender activists who dedicated their lives to advance the cause of women and girls around the world. Marguerite Durand, Olympe de Gouges, Simone de Beauvoir, Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan, Gloria Watkins, Eve Ensler, Zainab Salbi, Wangari Maathai, 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Leymah Gbowee, Tawakkol Karman, 12-year old Malala Yousafzai and so many others known and unknown. These women and girls are heroes and pioneers, they embody feminist movements – the suffrage movement, the women’s liberation movement, black feminism, the feminist sex wars, eco-feminism and modern gender activism – and are the essence of social change. Closer to home, my grand-mother, my mother, my sisters and my daughter, Morgane, who is a leading young feminist focused on the intersection of gender and race and holds a strong voice in the blogosphere. They all helped me synthesize my strengths into a potent energy that is distinctively female, and taught me to never be afraid to express them.

9.  Can you celebrate your own success?

Everyday, I look back at my life experiences and I am grateful to have been able to harness the opportunities. It has been quite an incredible journey.

10.  Is the question “Can women have it all?” an excellent question, an offensive question or just old hat?

I am not sure it is the correct question. I never thought of it that way. I planned my career and never attempted to do it all. For me, it has always been a matter of choices. I chose to get an education, have a child and pursue a career and never felt overwhelmed or concerned about it. Over the years, I  seized opportunities as they presented themselves using strategic thinking, advice from my peers and intuition.  Women have every advantage right now. It’s time for more women to harness their strengths. Women have never been better positioned to make their mark.

11.  What do you feel the role of Government is in supporting women who want to succeed in business?

The Government has a role to play in the economic empowerment of women. It ought to provide management and technical services and programs that support and accelerate women’s business ownership and strengthen their impact on the economy, accelerate the rate of growth of women’s business, increase the economic impact of women-owned businesses on both families and communities and stimulate public policy and system changes, which support and strengthen the economic impact of women. The Government must assist women who are economically or socially disadvantaged by offering comprehensive training and counseling on topics related to education, business development and growth.

12.   What do you feel the role of the Government is in supporting corporates who want to attract more women into their business?

The government and business leaders have been talking for decades about advancing more women to top leadership and professional roles. They have tried to come up with plans to make better use of female talent to promote economic growth and competitiveness. The government should optimize tax policies – give tax breaks to women returning to work – review proposals and laws, and update those that disadvantage women, help make the economic case for women in business, incentivise child care by supporting more accessible, affordable child-care options.

13.  What is the most inspiring act or story you have come across of a woman succeeding in your organization UN Women For Peace?

UN Women for Peace (unwomenforpeace.org) is an organization created by women for women. In support of capacity building for peacekeeping, we are proud to have provided scholarships to female students from post-conflict areas and enable them to attend the University for Peace. These students are women living under extraordinary circumstances. UN Women for Peace stands for eliminating the gender gap, empowering women economically, educationally and politically. If we empower women, we influence change. That’s how we measure our success.

14.  Quote that inspires you?

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”  Nelson Mandela

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1. What motivates you to succeed?

In all honesty I don’t think about success in that way. I’m lucky that I love my career, so work, my passions and interests are really all one. I believe that success is not an absolute, success is a succession of failures and attempts until you get it right – it’s a journey.

2. Where do you think the opportunities for women in business lie in the future?

I think that opportunity for us is for not to think as ourselves as different or handicapped for being women and to position ourselves as equals. What I mean by that is that we should embrace our femininity and respect others and ourselves in the way that we wish others to do.

3. What advice do you have for women hesitant about their own abilities?

Stand tall, seek criticism and believe in yourself.

4. How do you feel women can support other women in business?

I think that supporting others in business should not have to be something to do based on what sex you are.

5. What top tip would you give to a woman trying to drive their career forward?

Listen, seek criticism and when you get it don’t be emotional about it. But for me the elephant in the room is motherhood and that is a choice – some women choose to be a mother, some women choose not to and some women choose both. I think that the main thing is to be happy with the choice you make not to blame the system for it, be happy with the choice you make and make the most of it whatever it is.

6. In your field do you see a culture-change taking place in the boardroom?

Yes I think that there is change – but it’s slow – I think that when millennials are heading businesses there will not be an issue in terms of gender equality.

7. Is the glass ceiling getting easier or more difficult to break through? Any changes between now and ten years ago?

I’m a women entrepreneur – and I think that there is a lot of women that took their careers in their own hands choosing to create their own careers and for us there is no such a thing as a glass ceiling – in fact the opposite – women entrepreneurs have an advantage over men.

8. Who inspires you and why?

Karen Hanton, my Co-Founder and Investor is somebody that I have been friends with for many years and I admire profoundly, she is kind, smart and driven. Sir Alex Ferguson, again, I’ve been lucky to meet him a few times and what I love about him is that besides being one of the most successful managers of all times he is a family man as well as a true professional. I admire people that are successful but also care about their families, people and the planet.

9. Do you think women celebrate their own successes enough or is there a need to highlight more in what they are achieving?

I think that people need to be humble about their successes – otherwise you take on the risk of being arrogant. You know that you have achieved success when you take the time to help others to achieve success, but I don’t think you should shout about it.

10. In your eyes, do you feel there is an opportunity to do more off the back of the Davies Report to progress women’s careers?

I don’t know enough about it.

11. What are the top three initiatives you feel the Government could do for women who want to succeed in business?

I think that child care needs to be tax deductible! Crazy that it is not…

12. What are the top three ways you feel the Government could support and push corporates who want to attract and help more women prosper into their business?

Same as above and be flexible about job sharing and also teach entrepreneurship at schools for both men and women.

13. As a successful business woman in the UK, how do you think we can inspire and support more women in their careers?

Mentoring.

14 . If we succeed and support women in business productively, how would you like to see the landscape change in 5 years? Please state any thoughts from the boardroom to investments in female businesses.

I hope that more women come up the career ladder and choose to stay in business or set up their own businesses.

15. What is the most inspiring quote you have heard?

I don’t know if it is inspiring but what keeps me grounded is Einstein quote – I refer to it almost on a daily basis – it is my reality check.

“Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results” – Albert Einstein

16. What are your sources of inspiration?

People, nature, sports – I guess I’m a positive person so I always see the glass half full.

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