Questions to Alison Vickers, Owner – Auriac Associates

To celebrate International Women’s Day & Women’s History Month, Krishnan asked a few questions to Alison Vickers, Owner – Auriac Associates

What does IWD mean to you? 

Recognition of women from all backgrounds on their achievements despite prejudice. It also points out we have a long way to go

Why haven't we achieved equality, despite legislation in place regarding pay? 

As a former board director and now keen to become a NED, I hear really encouraging words from men in my network. Yet, I still see the same men who encourage me looking out for one another when it comes to NED positions. It’s lip service. It’s time for the grey-haired open neck collared men to step up and make some real changes, instead of play acting that they are.

How would you advise young women leaders on how to build confidence in their ability as a manager and leader? 

Be true to yourself. I have been told I am too emotional in my career. A man is thought of as passionate. I have been told I do not need to provide for a family so I can’t get a pay rise on par with my male counterpart. We need to PR ourselves as well as men, there are some brilliant men in the sector, and they all do a lot of back slapping to one another on twitter/networking events. We need to do the same to one another

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? 

Support those around you, help pull up the ones behind you and always give your time if a woman in your business asks for advice or needs a sounding board.

What initiatives should companies invest in to promote women in leadership? 

Accept the differences between men and women. Smaller companies need to have open conversations about the challenges for women in the workplace.

Do women in our sector have a hard time getting promoted? 

Yes – having children is the biggest excuse. In a 40-year career, taking a total of 2-3 years out is nothing and yet it can really derail someone’s career. I did not have kids, but I have seen this happen. Men promoting mirror images of themselves in an unconscious way is also one of the biggest hurdles

If you could choose one recommendation for HR leaders to help promote women in the workplace, what would it be? 

The loudest and most confident often get the job in our sector. Often this is the men. More strategic review around potential and less around likeability will help women

Is there a particular leader you look up to? 

I love what Nisha Katona has achieved. Monica Galleti and Angela Hartnet are both brilliant examples of female leaders. I also really admire Ann Elliott and the Plan B mentor group.

What advice would you give your younger self? 

Listen more. Asked for more support on areas I struggled with.