This year's International Women's Day theme #ChooseToChallenge represents the idea of challenging norms related to gender equality to create change. At Selby Jennings, we choose to challenge and promote gender diversity and inclusion.
Nicole Mahoney, AVP - Head of Life & Annuity Actuarial Recruitment, shares her thoughts on this year's theme, and how she chooses to challenge in her role.
What does the #ChooseToChallenge message mean to you?
To me, #ChoosetoChallenge means I choose to constantly challenge the conscious and unconscious biases that limit inclusivity and create unnecessary barriers that prevent women to lean in and thrive in the work place.
What sort of conversations around gender equality do you have with your clients in your role? Has Covid-19 had an impact on gender equality?
Clients now more than ever are pushing for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. If we continue to have these open conversations and push for these initiatives, we can directly impact gender equality in the Insurance industry.
What role can recruiters play in challenging norms and creating change?
As recruiters, we play a key role in challenging norms and creating change. We are able to consult our clients, send over our D&I Market Updates and provide insight as to what competitors are doing towards inclusivity to drive strategic hiring across the industry.
What advice would you give to a company trying to create a diverse hiring strategy?
Have open conversations with leaderships teams, set tangible targets and goals towards creating a diverse hiring strategy, and always ask for the advice from those around you.
As a female leader, what advice would you give to other aspiring leaders in overcoming potential gender biases and achieving career success?
Never be afraid to lean in and speak your mind. You are valued and have the potential to do whatever you set your mind to.
About Nicole Mahoney
Nicole is currently an AVP and Head of the Life & Annuity Recruitment Space. She has been with Selby Jennings for about 3 years and during this time has claimed a spot within the “Million Dollar Biller” group for Lifetime Sales and was one of the Top Global Billers Internally for 2020.
Visit other International Women's Day related content here.