We all know collaboration, brainstorming and team-work create a better product, solution and action; but whose two heads are creating the best results?
In a recent report by Deloitte, “The Gender Dividend: Making the Business Case for Investing in Women“says Two Different Heads are Better than Two Similar Ones. While this may be obvious, it does bring a great point that…
“…perhaps the greatest benefit to having more women working alongside men is captured by the old adage, “two heads are better than one.” It is becoming increasingly clear that diverse perspectives and experience are critical to solving complex problems and innovating in the midst of rapidly changing conditions. In reality, the question is not women or men, it’s how to ensure women and men are working together in decision-making roles.”
In the last six months, I have gone from working with a team of men to a pretty equal team of women and men. With all the new additions to the GovLoop team I see more and more enthusiasm, energy and team-work; but what stands out the most is how the decisions we make together are (literally) more Awesome!
It isn’t men vs. women, in fact it is almost always a male/female duo vs. another male/female duo; as the two duos discuss their interpretations, opinions and ideas the end result is usually fantastic and works great for the entire team. Don’t get me wrong, all of my coworkers rock and I am blessed each and every time I step into the office or pick up the phone to chat about anything and everything that is going on.
My point here is that I have already seen the differences in co-ed collaboration and the results are far greater.
I encourage you to attend the next GovLoop Live Chat taking place Tuesday, March 1st from 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm EST with the co-authors of “The Gender Dividend: Making the Business Case for Investing in Women” and “Paths to Power: Advancing Women in Government“.
I agree that women bring great advantages to the workplace. In general I think we tend to have strong listening and relationship skills that can enhance the performance at any company. We can either do this through teamwork or just simply friendly competition between co-workers. The question of work/life balance is a constant struggle for professional women. I don’t think it has to be if companies commit to advancing women and supporting families needs to be part of its culture. (This doesn’t have to apply to only women- There are a lot of single dad’s that could benefit from this too.) It’s sad to see so many talented people have to make the tough decision to stay at home instead of advancing their careers. I’m looking forward to Deloitte’s chat on investing in women.