Research by McKinsey and the LeanIn organisation from 2018 reported that about 15% of men felt that a focus on women at work was detrimental to their career opportunities as men. So whether or not it is a zero-sum game, in reality for some men, it can certainly feel that way.
What do you think?
Do more jobs for women, mean less jobs for men?
If you're curious, watch the snippet below: (click the picture)
To watch the full interview, go to https://www.mareemcpherson.com.au/shop/annelli-blundell
Simply make a $10 donation to Sisterworks and the whole interview is yours to watch... (Along with all the 'good feels', knowing that you have also helped to raise funds to support women who are refugees, asylum seekers or migrants to improve their confidence, mental wellbeing and sense of belonging.)
Oh, and this is the book we were discussing, 'When men lead women: Navigating the facts, fears, and frustrations of gender equality as a male leader' You can grab your own copy here:
This is a pocketbook about the unspoken responses of men, to the rise of women at work. Men are grappling with their place in the fight for gender equality. They have questions, concerns, fears, and curiosities, about their presence and purpose in this issue, and are not always sure how to enter into discussions with sensitivity and support. Not all of their thoughts feel safe to explore in general discussion, without seeming sexist, ignorant or unsupportive.
This book is an attempt to surface the conversations that feel taboo, that may be unpopular, and perhaps a little too controversial to say out loud. It's an opportunity for men (and women) to engage in real dialogue and get answers to the questions they're hesitant to ask. Without a safe space to explore and understand the role men play in striving for equality, society as a whole will remain stuck in the status quo.
The ideas in this book provide the pathway forward for a new dialogue between men and women: A dialogue where blame and fear are replaced with clarity and courage, and men feel not only encouraged to get involved, but crucial to the cause.