We need to be more visible?

[MrsMargoLeadbetter]

Been depressed recently by the number of marketing conferences (am marketing freelancer) I have seen with NO or virtually NO women in the speaker line up. This is despite the fact that marketing as an industry has lots of talented women in it.

Am guessing it is a mixture of women maybe (yes, this is a big generalisation) not as pushy/proactive as men + event organisers that look at the row of white middle aged photos and don't think "perhaps we need to mix this up a bit". There is also an element of speakers tend to do the rounds, so once you are out there, you are invited to speak elsewhere.

I have pimped myself out a bit, but I have to force myself. I have always gained something out of speaking externally and profile raising is obv always good as a freelancer.

Not really sure why I am posting. I guess I just wanted to encourage any ladies reading to think about being proactive and getting out there.

Depressing isn't it? I've worked in marketing for years and its overwhelmingly women, yet the top jobs are nearly always filled by men.

I agree with you whole heartedly, but this week I think I've discovered the reason why women are avoiding such things. I work primarily with men and the fart stench had me sat with my hand over my face most of Tuesday this week. :( what the fuck is wrong with them? ;)

A belated thanks for the comments.

Redblanket one was for the CIM, who frankly I think should know better. Look at the line up - cimannualnationalconference.co.uk/Speakers - who looked at them and thought - "yes, that looks good & representative".

I am thinking about standing for the CIM Board elections on the back of it. I am seething. However, it looks like you need to know a regional member to propose you. I have questioned this, as it doesn't make for a diverse board if everyone comes up from the same pool etc. Errrrr.

Dolomitedonkey - that sounds horrible!!

@DolomitesDonkey when a man reaches a certain age he cultivates a habit of getting up and strolling over to an open window or other airy spot, pausing in contemplation of some knotty problem before returning to his desk with a look of enlightenment (which some may mistake for relief) on his face.

You are obviously working with younger blokes who do not think they need such moments of introspection.