Creating an equal working environment not only improves workflow but also drives the vision and mission of the business.
This is according to Rivonia business coach extraordinaire Arthi Rabikrisson who was recently honoured for her strides in driving a more unbiased workplace.
Rabikrisson took home the coveted Positive Role Model: Entrepreneur/Consultant Award for both Gauteng and Southern Africa at the recent Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Awards.
The awards celebrate achievements in creating and promoting a more unbiased workplace when gender mainstreaming is an uncompromised norm.
According to Rabikrisson, corporate leaders are crucial in setting the gender equality agenda. “Leaders set the tone for how a business works, the culture and environment that is fostered and ultimately the level of engagement employees feel.”
She believes the benefits of a more unbiased and equal work environment in the long run far outweigh short term discomfort and the cost. “When employees feel the freedom to express themselves, without prejudice, fear of untoward or shallow judgements and knowing that they will be heard and even be engaged in healthy debate on, it becomes a compelling proposition for striving towards excellence, personally and professionally.”
She added that by building a ‘secure psychological contract’ with your employees, they will become net promoters and advocates of your business – its vision and mission – and embrace the values which align with their personal ones.
“A healthy work environment allows people to flourish, systems and processes to run better and enhances the soul of the organisation that engenders trust.
“Doesn’t that sound wonderful? It should and it is very achievable – if the emphasis is placed to actively make it happen.”
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