Menopause: A HOT work issue
Menopause impacts more than half of us directly — and all of us indirectly. Now is the time to break the taboo and get talking about ways we can support those experiencing it.
I was so glad to be selected as an event panellist for CPA Australia's panel, “Menopause - a HOT work issue”, held on 6 November 2024.
Menopause is a DEI issue
This quick snippet offers some of my thinking on why this discussion about menopause matters so much.
Key takeaways
Bring back flexibility
The recent rollback of flexible work options has been a setback for many, particularly those facing health challenges. Giving employees the autonomy to manage their schedules — not just where, but how work gets done — can make a world of difference for managing the varying symptoms of menopause.
Personalise workplace supports
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Support and accommodations shouldn’t be either. From flexible hours to dedicated quiet spaces, we need to work with individuals and think creatively about how we can customise the workplace to meet diverse needs. Small, reasonable changes can have a big impact.
Create time for real conversations
To personalise support, you need to be having genuine, personal conversations. But when workloads are heavy and the pace is "go go go", it's hard for employees to open up and ask for what they need. If leaders want to support team members effectively, we have to make time for these discussions, show we prioritise our people and relationships, and really create that psychological safety.
It was a pleasure to contribute to the panel from a diversity, equity and inclusion lens, alongside panellists.
I’m excited to see insights put into action and continue building workplaces where everyone feels supported.
If you’re looking for a keynote that gets cut-through, let’s chat. I regularly present on the future of work, employee experience, workplace culture, and the human way to high performance.
