The winds of change are blowing. A quota law on gender distribution on boards of directors may soon become a reality.
In our sister country, Norway, gender quotas have actually been a reality since 2006. Here, at least 40 percent of each gender must be represented in the boardrooms of listed companies and public enterprises.
"But I don't want to join a board of directors on a quota basis. Why should I, when I have the qualifications?" you might think.
The resistance is understandable, but what is the alternative?
Quotas are being considered, both at EU level and nationally, because women do not have the same opportunities as men to join boards of directors – REGARDLESS of individual qualifications.
If gender equality is to succeed, quotas may be part of the solution.
But they don't do it alone.
Quotas or status quo?
We also need to get the many talented women to accept the board positions that are earmarked for them—just as many men (and some women) have accepted positions over the years because they "knew someone" or already had a foot in the door.
Is it equally acceptable or problematic if you end up on a board because a quota dictates it, or because you were once part of an 'old boys' network'?
I believe this, even though it may seem contradictory to fight the original evil with a new one.
If you know you are qualified and ready to make as big a difference as any other candidate... well, why would you pass up the opportunity—no matter how it came about?
Men—both competent and incompetent—have always had an unfair advantage when it comes to distributing board positions, which is why quotas are the lesser of two evils... well, quotas and the status quo.
If the quotas are introduced, I would say:
Seize your chance, take your place, and prove your worth on your own terms—regardless of your gender.
Contact me if your company wants to lead the way or needs to tackle the winds of change.
