International Women’s Day, IWD, is celebrated all over the world with pride and admiration for women who are excelling in all aspects of life and work. From being a leader to being primary caregivers, they have done it all and have become shining beacons of resilience & strength.
The tenacity that women showcase in managing their homes also reaches their workplaces, making women excellent business leaders. Women leaders bring a blend of subject matter expertise and high emotional quotients, which is compounded by superior communication skills, making them adept business leaders. Numerous studies have also indicated that when more women come on board, the company flourishes.
However, women leaders are still a minority across the globe. To get a deeper understanding of how women can help improve business growth, we reached out to various women leaders. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we shed light on their thoughts about inclusion in their respective fields.
Today, on this wholesome occasion, Women Entrepreneur India brings prominent Women industry leaders to enlighten you with their experiences and perceptions.
Let’s read about them and know what they think.
Rachna Kango, Head of Marketing & Strategy Planning at Delta Electronics India
Why is Inclusion Important for businesses?
As a woman leader in the Indian business landscape, I firmly believe that inclusion is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for the growth of the business world. When we embrace diversity and inclusion, we unlock a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and talents that drive innovation and creativity. Inclusive workplaces foster a culture of belonging where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. This, in turn, leads to higher employee engagement, productivity, and retention rates. Moreover, diverse teams are better equipped to understand and cater to the needs of diverse customer bases, resulting in enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, fostering inclusion allows businesses to access a broader talent pool, tapping into the full spectrum of skills and capabilities that individuals from different backgrounds bring to the table. Ultimately, by prioritizing inclusion, businesses not only promote social justice and equality but also position themselves for sustainable growth and success in an increasingly diverse and competitive global marketplace.
What steps can be taken to inspire inclusion in the Indian business landscape?
In the Indian startup industry, fostering inclusion requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders. Companies can lead by implementing diversity and inclusion training, ensuring equal promotion opportunities, and cultivating a culture of respect and belonging. Business leaders set the tone by championing diversity initiatives, actively listening to underrepresented voices, and advocating for inclusive policies. Government bodies can support inclusion through regulations promoting diverse hiring, financial incentives for diverse companies, and targeted funding for underrepresented groups. Business bodies can further empower women entrepreneurs by facilitating networking, mentorship programs, and access to funding, enabling them to flourish. By collaborating across sectors and implementing proactive measures, we can create an environment where everyone has equal opportunities for success, regardless of gender or background.
What’s your message for womenfolk across India, on International Women’s Day?
On this International Women's Day, I want to remind all women across India of your inherent strength, resilience, and limitless potential. Your dreams, aspirations, and contributions are invaluable to society and the world at large. Embrace your uniqueness, stand tall in your convictions, and never doubt your abilities. Together, let us continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Remember that you are worthy of every opportunity, every success, and every ounce of happiness. Let us support and uplift one another, amplifying each other's voices and advocating for gender equality in all spheres of life. Today, let us celebrate our achievements and reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where every woman can thrive, unapologetically being her authentic self. Happy International Women's Day!
