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Community Manager
Mar 8, 2023 12:00 AM UTC

Building the Future: Empowering Women in Construction

On Wednesday, March 8th, we had a live conversation with a panel of talented women who shared their personal journey of overcoming barriers, how they've seen the industry change, and what leadership opportunities look like for women in construction today. If you missed this one, you missed a good one so here's a link to the webinar recording. Below you'll find a sampling of some of the great advice that was shared during this webcast. Be sure to listen to the recording to hear more amazing tips! And here is just one comment we received from an attendee: I would like to sincerely thank all the wonderful and intelligent women that took their time and knowledge to present today, it was a very good learning experience, expanding my perspective. Thank you! Take a moment to reply with your own advice! Here are a few examples of great advice that was shared during the webinar by the panelists: How do I appear more confident during meetings? Start small, making comments and asking questions that show them you're engaged. Don't take notes or offer to the notetaker!:rofl: For women just entering the construction workforce, be sure to show them a career path, starting at the interview. We need to dispel the notion that women work because they want to get out of the house or provide extra income. Women want careers and we need to show them the way! Be a helpful person/team player but don't let others put work on you just because they think you're an "office worker". If they come to you needing help but what they really want is for you to do the task for them, DON'T. Give them instructions but let them do it for themselves.

    91 replies

    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    Don't assume all men will judge you or try to walk all over you. Just show up with confidence, be knowledgeable and thorough in your role, and majority of people will respect you for your contributions.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    I'd add to the note taking that don't always take the scheduling meetings on.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    I agree wholeheartedly with Will's comments. This is such a common problem in large teams.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    Always be open to feedback and constructive criticism. Although the construction industry has mostly consisted of men; women in construction has really grown their numbers which is something to celebrate. I will say never let a man make you feel inferior just because you're a woman, but also remember to be respectful and thoughtful of the positive advice or expertise the men or women might have to offer you as well. You want to earn your way because of your intelligence and great work ethic not because you are a woman.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    Be a helpful person/team player but don't let others put work on you just because they think you're an "office worker". If they come to you needing help but what they really want is for you to do the task for them, DON'T. Give them instructions but let them do it for themselves. I think this is key. Standing up for yourself and not taking on tasks. There are "housekeeping" tasks and there are "glamour" tasks. The housekeeping tasks are essential for keeping the business moving forward but are mundane, day-to-day tasks (printing plans, filing, data entry). The glamour tasks are ones that get you noticed and make big moves for the company (negotiating contracts, business development, investor meetings). More often than not the housekeeping tasks get put on women and we do not get the same opportunities to do the glamour tasks that will advance our careers.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    So many good tips posted here. A lot depends on the workplace you are in. Most places, just be confident in what skills you can provide, contribute to the team, and don't fall into the trap of being a team secretary.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    The numbers presented at the beginning are really encouraging, i.e.: The growth of women in the industry and closer matched compensation rates between women and men. I think it's important to remember that when we are empowering women it does not mean we need to find flaws with the other genders. The only way for women to really find equal footing is for all genders to realize that people are people, and if you are a capable hard working person you deserve the job/title/compensation/respect regardless of how you identify yourself.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    Be engaged in the conversation. Listen - all of us can take this advise; stop listening to respond but listen to understand. Listening was the greatest advise I got out of the webinar. Contribute and collaborate, we are all in this together.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    I think the most significant change will happen when we look at each employee as just that, an employee. If the employee can perform the job, get it done. I am so glad to see more women taking on a variety of duties.
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    Community Manager
    Mar 9, 2023 12:00 AM UTC
    A lot of good advice. Good communication is critical to a company's success.
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