Breaking the “Glassphere” on International Women’s Day
Lara Martinez Gonzalez
Career Development Architect. Talent Intelligence Strategist. Founding Member of Hacking HR. Advisory Board member. Executive Coach. PMP, SHRM-SCP
On this International Day, we should aim to dismantle the illusion of the glass ceiling as the sole obstacle to the professional advancement of women and underrepresented groups.? It is not just about breaking through the ceiling; it's about shattering the entry and lateral barriers that encircle untapped talent.
The way individuals are socialized and shaped in their interactions is critical in fostering the core skills necessary for professional advancement. Informal networks play a pivotal role in securing job recommendations, nurturing personal branding, exerting influence both within and outside an organization, gaining early access to projects and opportunities, and receiving due recognition during talent reviews or promotions.
A Paradox emerges when highly skilled individuals, eager to prove their worth, focus primarily on delivering results and propelling the organization forward, often at the expense of cultivating the networks and connections crucial for expanding their immediate sphere.
Hammers to Break the "Glassphere" - How can you help?
?? Reimagine Networking Events:?Transform afterwork events into "during work" gatherings to create a more inclusive environment. By doing so, you enable parents and caregivers to participate, who might otherwise miss out due to late scheduling.
? Foster Inclusive Conversations:?Introduce topics that everyone can engage in. While it's acceptable to share personal passions, it's important to ensure that all individuals feel empowered to contribute.
?? Role Model Best Practices:?Identify individuals who are working exceptionally hard and help them strike a balance in their workload. Role modelling self-care and networking will enable your teams to do the same.
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??Open Opportunities to Everybody:?When seeking collaborators for a project, make it public and accessible to anyone who may be interested, rather than solely reaching out to familiar contacts. Embracing diverse perspectives can yield unexpected value.
?? Share your Networks: Extend your network to help others make connections and offer yourself as a mentor.
Your Contribution
What other "hammers" can you think of to help shatter the "Glassphere" and create a more equitable professional landscape?
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of current or previous employers. Any content provided by the author is her opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.