Did you know globally, women make up less than 24% of news sources (World Economic Forum, 2020) and less than 30% of paid speakers (Korn, 2023)?
According to the World Economic Forum (2024), achieving gender parity is still a long way off, with projections indicating it will take another 131 years at the current pace of change.
While extensive research has shed light on the drivers of gender inequality, there has been limited focus on how women’s perception of the word "expert" affects their ability to embrace this role.
My recent study,Hidden Figures: Where Are All the Female Experts?, addresses this gap by exploring the question: How does a woman’s relationship with the term "expert" impact her journey to becoming one?
From theHidden Figures research, four key themes emerged, offering a foundation to address the disparity in expert representation and support more women in stepping up and confidently owning their expertise. Here are two of these themes, along with recommendations for action.
A woman’s relationship with the word "expert" is often complex, it can feel “awkward,” or even evoke the image of “a man’s face.” I refer to this as the “ick of expert.” This negative association presents a clear obstacle. If women are reluctant to position themselves as experts, they are less likely to be offered opportunities in line with such a role.
My recommendation: The solution starts with self-reflection: take time to think about how the word "expert" makes you feel, explore the reasons behind these feelings, and consider how a shift in perspective might unlock new opportunities.
Women often feel they need to tick every box before they can confidently call themselves experts. However, my research shows there is often a lack of clarity about what those boxes actually are, which prevents women from fully embracing their expertise and speaking out.
So, how much is enough, and who decides? The reality is that you do.
My recommendation:Think of a woman you admire as an expert. Create a checklist of the characteristics and behaviours she exhibits that resonate with you, and use this to develop your own definition of expertise.
Experts are not born, they are made.
There is no shortage of talented and highly qualified women seeking to make a meaningful impact in their fields.
Yet, the complex relationship many women have with the word "expert" can prevent them from fully embracing their expertise, rendering themHidden Figures.
Now is the time to help women redefine their relationship with the word "expert" so they can use it as a powerful tool for driving influence, impact, and equality.
Whether you are a woman striving to make a difference, a corporate or government leader, a conference organiser, or a media influencer, download theHidden Figures Whitepaper, and together let’s move towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
