EmpowHer:  Career pivots and future skills for professional women

Jenn Barnett, head of equity, inclusion and diversity at Grant Thornton 

“Our research shows that the top barriers preventing women from exploring new directions in their career is mainly internal anxiety and perception; for example, feeling too old for a change career, worrying about loss of income and losing the flexibility to allow for personal responsibilities.  Whilst a change in direction may mean a small step sideways or even backwards, perhaps in terms of pay or level of seniority, it can also be the first step to accelerating a career forward.  Clearly communicating the pathways to career pivots and highlighting success stories to create visible role models (of all genders) in flexibility and enabling learning, is vital to creating a culture that encourages change.  
  
“For employers, providing support that helps people to safely articulate their transferable skills and see possibility in a change of direction; as well as taking action to remove barriers to change; is beneficial not just for employees, but for business too. For example, embedding a truly flexible working culture, where people are enabled to take charge of when and where they do their best work is not only very attractive to people with caring responsibilities, but also supports people looking for flexible careers, supporting the next generation of working talent.” 

Cherryl Cooper, Director, Specialist Talent Advocate ED&I, Grant Thornton UK 

“For professional women, pursuing transferrable skills with diligence and purpose is key. Focusing on areas that are of personal interest or that you are passionate about will help to raise your profile as someone with rounded skills, that add value to your own teams and to others, all of which builds valuable career capital, and will help to ensure that when opportunities arise, you are well equipped to pivot and make a seamless transition into a new role or career.

“Fear of the unknown can be daunting, but my advice would be to feel the fear and do it anyway.   Focus on building self-confidence and be intentional about leading a rewarding and fulfilling life.  Seek out a coach or mentor, enhance your soft skills and build your network.  Your network is your net worth! Eventually, opportunities that align with both your personal and/or your organisation’s strategic goals will be available to you.”