InterviewsWomen in TechnologyWomen Leadership

“Try to be the Ambassador of Equality and Inclusivity at Work and in Your Personal Life”

Joumana Karam, the Marketing Head and New Business Development Regional Manager at Acer ME, says we need to create a safe environment where diversity is celebrated and not judged

How can companies empower more women into leadership roles to outperform rivals?
Every company aspires to grow and outperform its rivals. One of the factors that can make a difference is beyond sales numbers or a diverse portfolio. It is simply an internal decision to include more women in the workplace and specially in leadership roles.

HR policies and practices play a significant role here: flexible working arrangements, equal opportunities for advancement, customized training for diversity, unified rules for all the workforces, are among others. Changing the mindset of CEOs and Board Members to understand the benefit of having women in management positions as women leaders have more empathy, passion, problem solving approach and creativity versus the reactive leadership that is associated with male dominated leadership style (as per latest Forbes survey in 2023). Another important thing is dedicated training to help women fight the low self-esteem feeling that can hinder them from speaking up and trusting their own voice.

Do you believe there is a need to bridge divides in gender equality attitudes across generations?
We have seen a great deal of positive changes in recent years, but the divide is still present even in the younger generation. It starts with the family: how we treat our daughters and sons within our home. Then the school plays a pivotal role: how teachers encourage the students inside the classroom.

Let us not forget the government’s role as well: issuing the right policies and implementing gender equality at every touchpoint. Media also play a vital role in spreading the positive message, celebrating achievements and publishing case studies.

According to you what are the top three tips to build inclusive cultures to make people belong and be more engaged?

  1. Create a safe environment where diversity is celebrated and not judged.
  2. Focus on each day and take it step by step to recognize any small positive and win.
  3. Encourage people to speak and work while maintaining inclusion at any given time or situation.

How can future generations be inspired to strive for equality and inclusivity?
Every decision counts. Every action counts. Start with yourself. Speak about it and act upon it. Try to be the ambassador of equality and inclusivity wherever you are at work and in your personal life.

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