If we learned anything from 2017, it’s that the future is female. From the historic Women’s March to the #metoo movement, the focus on gender is becoming more and more crucial during this time. As this bi-partisan issue continues to evolve, the glass ceiling will continue to be broken as more focus is given to all the issues surrounding women. The trend is now and it’s time jump at every opportunity to help continue the fight for equality. The Workplace track at SXSW is no exception to this. There are numerous sessions, panels, and meet-ups focused on gender rights. Below are the Top 5 sessions for both employees and employers who want to focus on female empowerment in the workplace.
Generous Parental Leave: A Liberty or A Luxury?
This panel discussion surrounding parental leave is a must for everyone. Not only will employees be given the tools they need to approach their workplace about paid parental leave but they will hear all the success stories that have happened in this booming trend. From Wal-Mart to Lyft, companies are listening and now is the time to fight.
Saturday, March 10
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Fairmont – Manchester A
Image credit: SXSW
See it, Hear it, Stop It: Fighting Sexism at Work
In light of Susan Fowler and her famous blog post about Uber in 2017, the discussion has continued on how to fight sexism in the workplace and how to become inclusive in the language we use. It is imperative that all industries begin to change how women are viewed and how to stop sexism from continuing to run rampant.
Tuesday, March 13
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Fairmont – Manchester A
Image credit: Pixabay
Time’s Up on Gender Pay Gap: How to Negotiate in 2018
Alexandra Dickinson has spent her career working with women on how to negotiate job offers and salaries through behavior based approaches of being kind and warm. This has now changed and women should be showcasing their skills and why it is of value. Rather than hearing about the pay gap, which we all know about. Alexandra will be discussing the skills women need to negotiate and hopefully they walk away with the confidence to pursue their worth.
Tuesday, March 13
12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Fairmont – Indigo Room
Image credit: SXSW
Women + The Power of Community, with Audrey Gelman
This discussion with Audrey Gelman hopes to be the excitement we all need during the movement. Audrey has created a co-working and community space for women in New York City and sees the value first hand of the community we all need. Women should be lifting each other up and supporting each other during this political struggle.
Friday, March 9
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Austin Convention Center – Ballroom EFG
Image credit: Pixabay
DISRUPTERS: Gender Equity Strategies for 2018
There are rules in the workforce and then there are creative ways women can break them. Dr. Patti Fletcher helps women to find ways to overcome obstacles and mental barriers to reach the career or role they are meant to have. How to find the success you as a woman are seeking and the building the habits, tactics, and relationships to help you get there.
Friday, March 9
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Austin Convention Center – Room 9C
Image credit: Pixabay