207: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership with Robert Baker

Do you want to promote a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking discussion with Robert Baker, a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.In this episode, we explore the need for a new approach to the billable hour system and the crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.The conversation delves into the inspiring example of Enjin, a global energy company that has successfully implemented changes to achieve gender balance in leadership and enhance organisational productivity.Robert also shares his insights on happiness at work, highlighting the importance of autonomy, meaningful work, and the support he receives from his partner, Pamela. The discussion extends to evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.Additionally, Robert discusses his transition from corporate roles to founding his own business focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The episode touches on the challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality, the societal socialisation of men and women from a young age, and the importance of recognising and addressing these influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.The main points throughout this podcast include:The crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.Evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.The importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality.The importance of recognising and addressing gender influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.Connect with RobertLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/robert-baker-potentia-talent-consultingTwitter: @robertbkrDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/https://happieratwork.ie/198-empowering-women-at-work-with-deirdre-mcginn/https://happieratwork.ie/174-the-role-of-emotions-in-workplace-dynamics-with-dr-lola-gershfeld/https://happieratwork.ie/167-embracing-diversity-and-inclusion-at-work-with-donna-oconnor/