This year, International Women’s Day is on a mission to #BreakTheBias. This movement looks towards a future where the world is free from bias, stereotypes and discrimination; a world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive.
Vistar stands by this mission and is collectively taking steps to make sure our workplace and industry are working towards breaking the bias. Today, women make up 37% of our global workforce and 43% of our leadership team! (P.S. we’re hiring!)
We are grateful for all the powerful, intelligent, and successful women we work with! To celebrate International Women’s day, we selected a few women who inspire us and are breaking barriers in their personal lives and workplace.
"Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg was asked when we would have enough women on the Supreme Court, and she responded, ‘when
there are nine.’ Her comment was met with surprise – a court made up 100% of women is surprising, but a court made up of 100% men is considered normal. It is not enough to aim for 50% of the court to be "equal”… we need to break these gender norms so that having 100% women leadership is just as normal. Having more representation of women in leadership is just the first step to #BreakTheBias. I am extremely lucky to be at a company that already has strong female leadership, with many role models and mentors who empower me every day. I feel that it is important to not lead “like a man,” but rather to foster and empower a leadership style that is authentic to yourself. My empathy, communication style, femininity, etc., are not a weakness; rather they are an asset that provide unique and diverse perspectives and skills. Be confident in your authentic self, because that’s what makes you special."
“To #BreakTheBias it is important to always be willing to put in the work, stay passionate, be curious and push the limits to find new ways to innovate. Always believe in yourself and your ideas so don't be afraid to speak up and be heard!”
I #BreakTheBias by giving people the opportunity to share and shine. Greatness can come from anyone, anywhere. Let people show what they can do. In my experience, you’ll be glad you did.
Take the time to recognize the strengths and skills of those around you. It takes a team effort to make change. Hone in on what you and each member of your team do well and watch things change for the better."
“One of our core values at Volta is that we’re here to drive the world forward. We consider immediate results as well as the long-term view of redefining mobility with our electric vehicle charging network. I think about #BreakTheBias similarly, in that it’s an immediate, everyday focus in our daily interactions, as well as a long term initiative for individuals and businesses.
In order to make a change you need to act as the change. If it’s a new role or new responsibilities in the workplace you have to act in that position to make the change as easy as possible for others to sign off. This way there is no question about your ability to handle the next step.”
She helped me find my voice and confidence and I take this everywhere I go. As females, we need to know our thoughts and opinions are just as important as anyone else's. We are equals and capable of so many great things and we need to remind each other of this. All I do is spread this message to every co-worker, student, friend, family member...you name it, I'm your hype girl. Because once you believe in yourself and don't let a bias intimidate you, you will see all the great things you can accomplish.”