Having worked in the industry for more than 10 years, I have lost count of the number of times I have automatically been demoted by men when they first meet me.
The awkward in-person meeting where they ask what you do at the company, assuming you must work in administration (not that there is anything wrong with that at all, of course, but it’s about the assumption). This is then often followed up with the patronising: “Oh you’re a broker, fantastic,” as if I have told them that my dog drove me into work that day. My favourite question, however, that I am sure no man has ever been asked, is: “Who’s going to look after the children?”
The specialist finance world is led by knowledge and wisdom, a trait that inevitably tends to come with age. The previous generation was predominantly male, so it may (still) often be surprising for those who have been around a while to face a female counterpart. There were brave women blazing a trail back in the day, paving the way for those of us which follow, and it would be fair to say that these women would have had to work that bit harder to get us where we all our today.
While diversity is important, much has come about by tick-box quotas which I don’t personally think is right. I want to be hired or considered for a role because of my ability, not to tick a box or as part of a publicity stunt. If a man is more qualified and suited to the job, he should get it. I want to make clear that we all want to be treated as equals and sometimes quotas can dilute the talent and push it into the wrong places.
I am so proud to be part of a network of strong, knowledgeable, professional, tough, and capable women. I think more light is shone on the divide nowadays, and women are increasingly celebrated in the industry than previously, which is such a positive development. Sometimes it’s nice to be in the minority, as we all stick together and can make it work to our advantage.
In the words of the famous song: ‘We’re coming out of the kitchen ‘cause there’s something we forgot to say to you…’ #Sistersaredoingitforthemselves’.
Are you a woman in the financial services industry keen to get your voice heard? Contact press@medianett.co.uk — we would love to chat!
