If workplace equality and being a woman in today’s workplace is your new interest then we’ve got the perfect reads for you this spring. Packed full of great quotes, anecdotes and statistics to get you started on your journey to educating yourself on this very topical issue.
Happy Reading!
1. Belonging – Kathryn Jacob, Sue Unerman and Mark Edwards
With the rise of the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements, and an increased discourse into inequality in the workplace, it is clear that the world is ready for a drastic change. Despite this positive momentum, statistics show that there are only 10 BAME people in leadership roles in the FTSE 100, and minorities are still less likely to be hired for the roles they apply to. This is why Belonging by Kathryn Jacob, Sue Unerman and Mark Edwards aims to shine the spotlight on one major issue – the lack of men engaging with diversity and inclusion initiatives. The book aims to be a call to action for men in particular to help create equality for all demographics at every level in the workplace. Released in 2020 and broken down into six sections from creating a sense of belonging for everyone, to internal reflection, this book is for those already passionate about diversity and inclusion, and for those who want to learn how to start their journey to shaping a better workplace culture. An essential read for a modern society.
2. The Fix – Michelle P. King
Workplace equality: just a woman’s issue? Split into three sections: Awareness, Understanding, and Action – ‘The Fix’ aims to address barriers faced by women whilst navigating the workplace, from graduate to board level. Michelle P. King starts by shifting the problem of equality at work from the backs of women firmly onto the workplace, detailing the need for us all to move away from the outdated notion that women need to be fixed, instead of making necessary changes to the workplace. We must first become aware of and understand that the workplace was never designed with women and marginalised groups in mind. Therefore cannot be simply changed by making it a burden-for-one. Sharing personal experiences, providing solutions to bring about sustainable change from Michelle’s own findings, The Fix is a must-read this spring!
3. How to Own the Room – Viv Groskop
Viv Groskop is a writer, stand up comedian and TV and radio presenter. Viv Groskop, wrote this book to help women cultivate the confidence of public speaking and guiding them through a series of in-depth expositions on incredible speeches made by the most impactful women in history. Showcasing how women can mandate power by using the most powerful tool they hold which is their voices. This book is a declaration in celebrating women and the power we have and how much change we make to impact the world and the next generation by speaking.
4. Invisible Women – Caroline Criado Perez
The Invisible Women is a book on exposing the data bias in a world designed for men. Perez highlights the controversy of phones being made too big for women’s hands, doctors prescribing medicines that are wrong for women’s bodies and the stark fact that in a car accident women are 47% more likely to be seriously injured than their counterparts. The book fleshes out government policies, medical research, technology, workplaces that favour women less than men. Using impressive case studies, real-life stories, and new global research that illustrates the forgotten population.
5. Shoot the HiPPO – Tom Bowden & Tom Jepson
Shoot the HiPPO is a digital marketing guide that lends a focus to non-traditional roles in marketing. The book does this from the very start, with the title “HiPPO” actually being an acronym for “Highest Paid Person’s Opinion”.
The book contains stories, anecdotes and related materials that make it an engaging read. Not only do the writers share their personal thoughts and opinions, but all of these are constantly backed up by further professional connections. The book seamlessly ties together its chapters and topics with videos and readings that can be further explored online.
If you want cutting edge marketing lessons from a pro whilst steadily transforming your view of the marketing role, then this is for you!
6. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts – Brene Brown
This book is a true gem. Here is a true manual and testament to true leadership; leading with vulnerability and courage in unforeseen circumstances. Brene Brown dives into the four key skills sets needed for great leadership and each one will leave you pleasantly surprised.
There are several helpful techniques in Dare To Lead that, if applied, will help you become a better leader. Including techniques for having tough conversations, increasing self-awareness, being mindful of our own and others’ beliefs, being aware of the stories we tell ourselves (that may or may not be true), and how to instil confidence and bravery in those you lead. Dare To Lead is written in such a way that it sounds as though you’re conversing with Brown. She uses personal examples and poses open-ended questions in a coaching style to inspire the reader to consider how these situations apply to their own lives.
These books are likely to give you much food for thought. We love reading here at Women In Tech forum so look out on our website for updated content including articles and book reviews!