Last night, iwibdus hosted online event from European Women on Boards Chairwoman, Hedwige Nuyens.
Hedwige spoke about her organisation, European Women on Boards www.europeanwomenonboards.eu and the excellent work that they do around helping women get to their next positions.
Their purpose is to have gender equality in these C-Suite leadership roles through:
- Partnerships with companies
- Development Programmes for women
- Research.
Hedwige
They have a goal to have 1000 women in these roles by 2023. Whoever she is – we can help her get to the next level.
Their research is around the top 600 companies by sector and country and their Gender Diversity Index. The research is about “not one woman just sitting there on the Board, but women deciding on Boards. It is important that she is the Chair, the CEO, the COO or the CFO.” These measures are important for companies to know.
…not just one women sitting there on the Board, but women deciding on Boards
Hedwige
Desktop vs Sky
Hedwige also talked about her own experiences and answered some of our questions, She used the analogy of a desk light versus a sky light. Women often just look at what is in front of them and do their job. As a C-Suite person, you must look beyond your role and at the sky – what is needed out there? “It’s not just doing your homework, it’s looking outside and seeing the opportunities. Learn to switch between your work and helping the bigger company picture. Move your desk top light to a sky light!”
Blossoming?
Hedwige has started her career again 4 times. She discussed that the tree in blossom is very beautiful – when you are thriving in a career and demonstrating your talents. But sometimes the blossom leaves and you have to focus on the roots, the parts people can’t see. Then you are stronger and better prepared for the next time you blossom.
The secret to getting to the c-suite?
Look at your whole life and see where you can ask for help! Add a solar panel to your life and use all the people and energy around you. Delegate, ask for ideas and support and choose a great partner! Other women can be your secret weapon!
Hedwige
“Women are much more ambitious than men… they want it all! The question isn’t the guilt and the struggle. The question is how do I live with it?”
First things First
We touched on keeping sane in all the busy life and work schedule. Hedwige uses her first thing first motto. She has her heart, mind, body and soul 4 boxes that have to be looked after first. These are essential before you start on the day.
If you would like to know more about European Women on Boards, please look at the website and their great mentoring programmes and training programmes.
We are looking forward to making this connection grow.
