Women in the Livery
What have we learned – Time Gentlemen Please!
There was an excellent attendance by women members of the Livery to hear the results of the survey undertaken during February and by participating they raised £100 for the Charity.
Janet Rivers presented the results and Sandra Raine gave the introduction and chaired the discussion. A series of polls added to the fun on the night.
Janet Rivers Sandra Raine
A stimulating discussion took place around the barriers to recruitment and why female membership remains low at just 28 members. Yes, you read that correctly – 28! The Company is perceived as male orientated, a truism but which also manifests itself subtly in many ways including language, literature, and the lack of women role models as speakers, stewards and on the Court and committees.
Many women reported misconceptions regarding the Company before joining. Findings show that they join for the same reasons as men, the history and social side of the Livery. Once they integrate, satisfaction rates are high and most said that they would nominate another woman.
There was enthusiasm for the idea of women reaching out to one another to achieve greater rapport; for female oriented events; better plans to receive and welcome new recruits; and mentoring. Many echoed the sentiment that they expected to be asked to do something upon joining, not simply to be sold tickets for events.
The evening was positive and focussed on moving forward not whining. Many ideas were suggested and will be analysed; some are already being taken on board by the WIL group. WIL are working to ensure better reception and to create more opportunities for women to interact and be introduced to more of the men in the Company. Most importantly we are seeking opportunities for them to become involved, such as applying to become a Steward or supporting the WIL team.
Women were largely in favour of the idea of introducing a colleague and we hope to run recruitment sessions, perhaps as part of other events.
As most women are currently recruited by family and friends, we need men in the Company to introduce more female colleagues, daughters, nieces, and friends. Strength in Company numbers benefits and enhances the experience for us all and is in line with the Company diversity policy.
Think about, isn’t it time you introduced a woman to the benefits of joining the Livery?
MEMBERSHIP FORMS ARE AVAILABLE ON-LINE. ADRIAN, OUR CLERK, OR ANY MEMBER OF THE MEMBERSHIP TEAM WILL GLAD DISCUSS ANY QUERIES YOU HAVE REGARDING RECRUITMENT.