If I asked you about your favourite character in any movie or show, who would it be?
How many male characters came to your mind versus how many females?
Did you immediately think about whether a favourite should be male or female? Bet that thought did not even cross your mind.
Now, let me spin this around a bit. When you think of someone you want to hire as part of your team, do you think of whether you want to hire the male or female candidate you liked from your two very capable shortlists? If you're thinking about hiring someone and the reasons you're considering don't match the job requirements or the traits you want, it is a sign to think more deeply. Pause for a moment and figure out what factors are really influencing your decision.
In a world where representation matters more than ever, iconic movies and shows have played such a huge role in helping us see the world differently.
Characters like Erin Brockovich and Wonder Woman have not only captivated audiences but have also inspired millions of women and men to believe in the possibilities of what can be achieved when women are given the chances they deserve.
The character of Gal Gadot in Wonder Woman was so inspiring that I came out of the cinema floating on air, feeling so invincible and unstoppable. Imagine what that means to a little girl watching this movie; she’d feel like she could achieve anything she ever wanted!
However, we live in a world of bitter contradiction. ‘Invisible Women’, by Caroline Criado Perez is a powerful and eye-opening narrative that sheds light on the gender data gap and its profound impact on women's lives. One of the most shocking revelations of the book is how the default male bias in data collection and analysis has resulted in women being overlooked or marginalized in key areas. It serves as a powerful call to action for individuals, organizations, and policymakers to confront and dismantle the gender data gap. It challenges us to question our assumptions, advocate for change, and work towards a future where women's experiences are seen, heard, and valued.
As a woman leader, I have always believed in being intentional about seeking out diverse perspectives, creating inclusive environments, and advocating for equal opportunities for all. Thanks to my mother for contributing to building my value system this way. For someone who started running her own business at the age of 40, having no previous work experience is so wildly inspiring - not because I am a woman or her daughter. It takes immense courage to dive into something you’ve never done before at a stage in your life where tough experiences can be daunting, forcing one to back down easily.
By demonstrating inclusive behaviours in actions and decisions, I’ve seen so many people inspire others to do the same. This can include promoting diversity in hiring practices, advocating for inclusive policies and practices, and creating a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected.
It also means being mindful of the impact of our words and actions on others. It means being open to feedback, learning from our mistakes, and continuously striving to do better. It means being willing to step out of our comfort zones and engage in difficult conversations of all kinds.
For me, I will always continue doing what I can to make sure I don’t disappoint the little girl watching Wonder Woman or ever make her feel like she can’t go out and rule the world.
(Madhura Ranade, VP - Business & Branded Content, Dentsu Creative India)