Navigating the Pay Gap in the Age of Cancel Culture: A Call for Corporate Accountability

In the newest episode of the Beyond the Pay Gap Figure podcast, I'm talking about the complex interplay between consumer activism, often referred to as 'cancel culture', and the persistent issue of corporate pay gaps.

The conversation is a wake-up call to businesses everywhere, signaling the importance of aligning corporate behavior with societal values and the consequences of failing to do so.

Here's a sneal peek of what I shared in the episode.

The Personal is Political: A Shift in Brand Loyalty

My loyalty to the beauty brand Liz Earle was put to the test following a discrimination tribunal loss. As a customer, my decision to switch brands was a microcosm of a larger phenomenon where consumers wield their purchasing power as a form of protest. This shift in brand allegiance is a testament to the growing trend of consumer power in holding companies accountable for their actions.

Cancel Culture: A Force for Corporate Change

I also explored how cancel culture has influenced companies with problematic behaviour. The example I used was Zara's recent advertising campaign that drew public ire for its insensitivity and the result...... a collective boycott based on social justice. The fashion chain's experience is a cautionary tale that underscores how quickly a brand's reputation can be dismantled when societal values are not respected.

A Controversial Proposition: Rethinking Pay Gap Priorities

It's my firm belief that there is no one way to 'do' pay gaps - so I focus on providing organisations with an alternative way of thinking and approaching pay gaps. The challenge is to look beyond traditional corporate strategies and societal norms, and to question the very metrics by which we measure success.

You can listen to the full episode here (and listen out for the special invitation)!

The discourse around cancel culture and pay gaps is complex and multifaceted, but one thing is clear; the era of corporate accountability is here, and it's reshaping the way businesses operate. If pay gaps has not been a focus for your organisation, then hopefully this episode will persuade you otherwise.

Listen to the episode and let me know your thoughts.

For confidential pay gaps support email us at [email protected] or book a call in our diary here: https://app.sessions.us/book/equalitypays/consultancy-call