I was recently asked what advice I would give to other women wanting to get into or succeed in the creative industries.
When I began working in the creative industry it was a very masculine environment with little opportunity for women to grow and develop into senior or managerial positions. Opportunities were scarce, obstacles were huge, and to even begin to break down barriers was daunting.
Things are beginning to change. Challenging and changing existing power dynamics, stereotypes, and discriminatory practices to create more gender equality is happening – albeit slower than it could be. Recognising women based on their ability rather than gender is rising to the surface and beginning to have a positive effect across creative industries.
"Look for an existing balanced organisational structure that reflects an even gender split across the workforce"
If you’re planning a career in the creative industry, as designer, account manager, copywriter or in any creative agency position, I would always recommend you look for opportunities that provide initiatives to promote equal opportunities, that offer career development through management training, and leadership roles that strive to help women advance in their career. Look for an existing balanced organisational structure that reflects an even gender split across the workforce would be a good a starting point.
Company culture is important too and often offers positive opportunities. A strong leadership team that embraces diversity and inclusion, and creates an environment where women feel valued, supported, and empowered is important. Work life balance through flexible hours and remote work options are a good step towards helping women to pursue a career without compromising family responsibilities. And providing fair equal pay also contributes by making childcare costs more affordable to families. Women’s health has also risen to the surface too over recent years and is no longer such a taboo subject. As such many businesses and organisations are taking women more seriously, seeing their ability and the benefits they can bring and providing good opportunities for women to succeed in the creative industry.
Finally, and possibly the most important piece of advice I would offer, is that confidence is key and can positively impact how others perceive you, therefore contributing to your success. It’s important that you believe in yourself, that you can have your say, share your opinion, be heard and respected. Be assertive by expressing your ideas and be confident in your delivery and abilities.
