The ups and downs of being a woman in business

Mel Kinsella, Kinsella HR Solutions

As a woman in business I offer a plethora of unique advantages, embodying the essence of diversity and fostering an inclusive atmosphere

and driving innovation as an HR Consultant. My role as a collaborative leader shines through, excelling in building strong networks and teams and achieving shared objectives with grace and determination.

Women still face challenges, from gender bias to unequal opportunities, but I am encouraged by the resilience and determination of inspirational

women across Cumbria.

Increasing recognition of the opportunities that gender diversity brings is necessary for women to thrive in the business community.

Don't underestimate us women in business across Cumbria for our contribution, talent, and business acumen. Instead, work with us to build a brighter future for all.

“With unwavering determination and boundless potential, the women of Cumbria stand poised to make history, transforming challenges into

triumphs and forging a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous tomorrow.

Natalie Barker, M&M Business Support

It’s 2024 and women in business do sadly face disadvantages in the workplace. Gender bias (including unconscious), pay gaps and underrepresentation

in leadership roles are areas that, in my opinion, we should all be helping to improve.

Employers, business owners, entrepreneurs etc. can help by spotting examples of these things and holding constructive conversations

with relevant stakeholders. Awareness and sharing information to improve understanding is key.

On a positive note, I’ve met and experienced firsthand a huge amount of support as a ‘woman in business’ myself.

Whether it’s women only networking, support forums for women in leadership roles or women-only coaching groups – there’s some wonderful

people who really are making a difference to women in business in Cumbria.

I’d love to see the support across Cumbria continue to develop.

Both male and female working parents, solopreneurs, retirees who have the skills we need are cohorts of people that should be supported,

alongside women in business of course.

The future is bright!

Melanie Corrie, Corrie and Co

It’s great to be a woman and I don’t wish to partake in male bashing!

I’m a successful business woman but my opinion and experience derives from balance, equality and mutual respect between the sexes.

Today’s industry and particularly my sector, estate agency, offers women

the chance to progress and succeed and offers equal remuneration and advancement based on hard work, qualification options and diligence.

Advantages include flexibility in working hours and the addition of ‘home

working’ providing back up for working mums who juggle parenting and full time hours.

Ironically, the advantages equally become disadvantages. Being a smaller

independent firm, there’s difficulty in trying to balance staff cover and support practically and financially for maternity and sickness.

Young mums, in particular, find little financial support in nursery charges.

This area needs more support for both.

Finally, working full time and running a home can sometimes be a ‘domestic

challenge‘ for any working person.

Personally, I see a level playing ground for any woman, without major

advantages or disadvantages based on gender. I increasingly work alongside other successful women in agency related companies.

I hope to always offer a valuable perspective and be a role model to all.