VIDEO: How travel companies can create a more “equal and human” workplace

Issues of diversity and inclusion in the workplace have been heightened in recent months, as events in the United States have reverberated around the world and as the COVID-19 crisis has exacerbated existing imbalances and discrepancies in the travel industry, according to a recent report from Women in Hospitality, Travel & Leisure.

Festive Road co-founder and managing partner Caroline Strachan has become a leading voice on issues of gender diversity in the workplace. She co-founded the “Women at Work” support group and last year delivered a TEDx talk, “Why gender equality is not just about women.”

At Phocuswright Europe 2020 in September, Strachan says while she still does not see change happening on this issue – and while now the attention of those in the C-suite may be even less focused on issues of diversity and inclusion due to COVID-19 – she remains optimistic.

“This is likely the most human year certainly that I’ve ever experienced, which makes me hopeful that we can manage this pandemic focused on a more equal and human workplace,” Strachan says. 

In her remarks, Strachan shares three themes she has learned from a variety of research that has been done on gender issues as they relate to work. 

First, that an inclusive workplace cannot exist if there is a “culture of overwork.” Technology has put pressure on workers to be always on and always available, and because in many families it is easier for the man operate in this way, it tends to give men the “ideal worker” identity. 

Second, that to create a more equal workplace, hiring departments need to focus on explaining both what is expected in each job role and how that work needs to be delivered, both for new hires and promotions.

And third, that effective leaders today need to balance both IQ – the ability to make smart, logical decisions – with EQ – the ability to understand other people and how to work effectively with them. 

Following her remarks, Strachan answered questions from PhocusWire news editor Jill Menze.

In a separate “Diversity in Leadership” panel discussion at the Phocuswright Europe 2020, participants discussed effective and authentic ways companies can create a balanced workforce. 

Panelists discuss the need to prioritize leadership roles and board positions that “influence and implement” change and to “link diversity and inclusion KPIs to leadership performance reviews.”