As a woman working in construction, Daphne Thissen, Thissen Consulting, is passionate about bridging the gender diversity gap at senior leadership level. Here, she provides an interesting insight into how the industry can help break bias and encourage more women to pursue careers in male-dominated industries
Since the beginning of the global pandemic, the construction industry has been shaken up and those of us working within it have had to evolve to the ‘new normal’ and different way of working. The industry has faced materials shortages, skills shortages, and has highlighted a shortage of female workers.
Research highlights that just 13% of those working in the construction industry are women(1). Why, in 2022 when we have well over 300,000 construction businesses operating across Great Britain(2), is this figure still so disappointingly low?
Are misconstrued and outdated assumptions leading to a shortage of women in construction?
Is it because of misconstrued and outdated assumptions? Perhaps it’s because we’re not doing enough for young people who are gearing up to make their career choice? Or is it because the opportunities for women are not being shared widely enough?
Personally, I feel that it is a mix of all these things, and it is the responsibility of our generation, those of us who are in the industry right now, to change this.
As a woman working across the construction and property industry, I am passionate about encouraging other women into the industry. As typically male-dominated industries and with the stats proving that we women are fiercely outnumbered, I understand that it can feel overwhelming. Imposter syndrome is rife in the industry with many women doubting their skills and ability and comparing themselves to their male counterparts.
How to break into a typically male-dominated industry
However, to mark International Women’s Day 2022, I want to help break the bias, continue to shatter the outdated glass ceilings and encourage more women to begin careers in the industry.
The construction industry is one of the most innovative, forward-thinking, and evolving industries in the UK and being a part of it comes with a host of benefits. We can be a part of a greater change. To help attract and nurture female talent into the industry. To create an industry that is equally represented and inclusive.
I am proud to work with clients who like me, are passionate about helping to encourage women to join the industry. Every client I work with has women on their boards and encourages female board memberships. These clients also all have policies in place that encourage women to grow and thrive in their careers. Whilst I am a firm supporter of these policies, I look forward to a time when they are a thing of the past when they are no longer required and construction is a first-choice career for millions of women across the UK, and the rest of the world.
Whilst there is, of course, still some work to be done for us women in terms of closing the gender pay gap, retiring the old stereotypes and providing more opportunities for women, I am confident that the industry is heading in the right direction.
I’ve learnt many things about the industry since I started working within it, a lot of which have surprised me all of which break down the assumptions that those unfamiliar with construction may hold. This includes:
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Diversity and inclusion in the construction industry
A common misconception across the industry is how as women, we will be treated. Assumptions are made that men in the industry will question our experience or knowledge. Not only have I found the companies I work with to be diverse in terms of their teams, but I have also found them to be all-inclusive across the board. I appreciate that not all women have been so lucky in their experience within the industry however I believe that a lot of resistance from women to join the industry is the fear of being treated differently to their male counterparts.
Admittedly, in the past, this fear was likely to have been justified however the industry has moved on significantly over the past few years and today, most companies and individuals within the industry are treating men and women equally. Of course, there is still some work to be done and I look forward to full equality being achieved.
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How to be kind in construction
Similarly, to my point above, I feel the construction industry is often considered to be something that it’s not. Whilst it can be considered a ‘hard’ industry from the outside, the business owners and the individuals working within the industry are some of the friendliest and kindest that I’ve been fortunate to work with throughout my career. I have never personally felt that being a woman is a hindrance to my career. In addition to this and opposite to industry stereotypes, I have always found that even during tough projects, commentary remains professional, and communication seeks to find consensus and a win/win outcome for all parties.
The construction industry is one built up of teams and this team-led approach shines through with everybody wanting the best for those in their team as well as suppliers. Kindness is one of my company values and the kindness from those working in construction has reassured me constantly that I am servicing the right industry.
There are also several mentorship opportunities within the industry, including those aimed at women. I provide mentorship for newly qualified females in the property industry and know first-hand the positive impact that mentorship is having for women in the industry, and their career growth.
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Be proud to work in construction
There is a real sense of pride from those working in the industry and I am certainly proud to be a part of it. It’s always inspiring to witness the pride of those who have been working on major projects that have an impact on others.
Leaders in the industry also show genuine pride towards their team members who are achieving great things in the sector. In some industries, I often witness jealousy towards others however the construction industry has a real community spirit and the pride shines through.
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Construction industry requires business awareness
The construction industry is particularly accommodating and supportive towards small business owners, perhaps because a lot of Directors from larger firms started out small themselves. There is certainly a higher understanding of challenges and a willingness to share advice when compared to other industries.
This awareness makes the construction industry a far more welcoming place for startups than some industries and there is a large amount of encouragement from others in the industry.
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Regularly network with construction professionals
Unlike other industries that rely on regularly organised events to network, the construction industry is one that is consistently moving, and networking is taking place everywhere, every day.
In my experience, I have found that whilst done in an informal way, networking in the industry is far more frequent than across other industries. As a small business owner networking can be hard to get a grip on and will often fall to the bottom of the pile whilst client servicing is prioritised, so it is always extremely helpful being endorsed by other businesses.
Over the coming years, the construction industry is set to keep growing, evolving and developing and is certainly an exciting industry to be working within. I look forward to welcoming more women into the industry through apprenticeships, career development opportunities and mentorship schemes as we continue to #BreakTheBias.
References
(1) https://www.statista.com/statistics/1023964/employment-in-the-uk-construction-industry-by-gender/
