Why women mentoring women is essential for workplace success
The importance of women in the workplace, not just because of the so-called softer skills they bring into an often testosterone-filled environment, but also because they nurture young talent, cannot be overstated.
Many studies cite the benefits of women mentoring other women. Others note that having more women in leadership brings diverse perspectives, improves decision-making, enhances organisational performance, and fosters a more inclusive environment.
As Tamra Veley, MD of Corporate Image, puts it, “mentorship between women in the workplace is not, nor should it ever be – about ticking a diversity box – it’s about building capability, confidence, and continuity”.
Jacqui Muller, a PhD candidate in Computer Science, industry coordinator for Belgium Campus iTversity, and founder of her artificial intelligence consultancy, says she has never felt like she was “just another employee” thanks to the women who instilled leadership in her.
Muller recalls that these women led with a nurturing ethos. Yet, “they were very goal-driven, outcomes-driven, making sure we get to the right targets. They had very analytical minds,” she says.
The strong leaders Muller worked with each brought specific skills – strategy, numbers, and project management – and combined them to build stronger teams. “One of my mentors was able to so diplomatically tell other colleagues and even clients that they could show themselves out that these men even asked for directions,” she says.
A woman mentor doesn’t need to be “soft” to be supportive, Veley notes. “Some of the most effective women leaders are strategic thinkers and tough decision-makers – but they don’t lose sight of empathy,” she says.
