That was the year that was!

By Melissa Jackson

As we head towards the end of 2019, we thought we’d complete a review of the items that you enjoyed most over the last year; the posts that were your favourites, according to statistics.

Thanks for your loyalty and support over the past 12 months and we look forward to bringing you many more interesting and thought-provoking items in 2020.

We always try to be creative in our approach to the subject of D&I, tackling the issues at the top of the agenda when it comes to the steep ascent to level the gender playing field.

Rina’s columns are always popular and she’s not afraid to speak out on issues that resonate with working women everywhere. Her piece on unconscious bias was no exception, underpinned by calls for a giant societal shift in attitude to make greater strides towards gender parity.

Gender Bias: Alive and Kicking

A feature on the importance of emotional intelligence, or EQ, in the workplace was another vote-winner. Those who’ve had the misfortune to work for a boss like the fictitious Gordon Gekko in Wall Street or Miranda Priestley in The Devil Wears Prada were reassured that their stereotyped barbarous actions are not welcome in the modern workplace. It’s good to know that EQ is an important tool for career success for both managers and employees and that the days of office bullying are numbered.

Emotional Intelligence: Your Secret Weapon at Work

You certainly warmed to Rina’s item about travelling safely as a solo-woman, timed perfectly to coincide with summer holiday season. We hope it ensured a safe passage for all adventurous tourists.

Travelling Solo? You’ll be 100% Safer if You’re a Man

I joined Voice At The Table in February and have since enjoyed exploring ideas and subjects that traverse the D&I conversation. Writing about my own career experience and the man who launched me on my journey with the BBC, was the starting point for my association with Rina and her impressive team and a discourse that was a, much appreciated, hit with readers.

Growing and Nurturing Career Confidence 

As summer faded into autumn, it seemed appropriate to address the issue of gender stereotypes in the classroom. Inspiration for the article came from an item in a book that I’d read by the feminist writer Caroline Criado Perez, which highlights how depressingly early these stereotypes are entrenched and what needs to be done to challenge them.

Back to School: Re-Drawing Gender Stereotypes

Another readers’ favourite was the political item about the almost impossible task BBC Newsnight presenter Emily Maitlis faced when trying to manage the squabbling mass of testosterone on display as the candidates for the leadership of the Conservative party, following Theresa May’s resignation, pontificated about their vote-winning credentials. I learned new words including, bropropriation, mansplaining and manterrupted – but don’t be deceived, none of them are good.

Never Work With Children or Politicians

Our advice column, Active Voice is always popular. We like to offer tips and guidance on subjects that are close to yours and our hearts. Here are the ones that were most “actively” received.

Ways to Navigate Office Politics Positively

Practical Things Men Can Do to Advance Women at Work

How Women Can Make an Impact in a Male-dominated Workplace