The reality of women’s health and its impact on work with Mel Kettle

In Australia approximately 20% of the workforce, or nearly 2.5 million women, are estimated to be currently undergoing perimenopause or menopause, with the potential to have a huge impact on the workplace and your workforce. Mel Kettle is on a mission to break the menopause taboo and ensure there is sufficient understanding about what menopause is, who it impacts and how, so that the women impacted no longer feel they need to suffer in silence.

For many women, menopause is one of the main reasons they feel so disconnected at work, and because it’s perceived as a topic often shrouded in secrecy, asking for support may seem impossible. According to a recent Menopause and the Workplace report, one in ten women undergoing menopause have left their employment due to the associated symptoms. Others have opted for reduced working hours, part-time positions, or refrained from seeking promotions. This exodus and job adjustments have far-reaching consequences on workplace engagement, productivity, and, of course, profitability.

If you have women in your life or workplace undergoing menopause, extend kindness to them. In the workplace, managerial support is crucial. A menopause-friendly workplace that acknowledges and supports women during this life transition yields positive impacts, fostering improved engagement, increased productivity, and a healthier bottom line.

It’s time to break the taboo, and encourage open conversations.  If you want to make a positive change in your organisation, here are a few things you can do:

• Implement learning and development programs to enhance awareness and discuss the importance of menopause in the workplace.
• Develop a conversation guide for managers to broach the topic with sensitivity.
• Ask women what support they need during this time in their lives.
• Demonstrate kindness and understanding. Menopause is an immensely confusing time for most women, and a little kindness goes a long way.

Article credits https://www.melkettle.com/

Don’t miss Mel Kettle speaking at the QLD Public Sector Women in Leadership Summit as she explores the reality of women’s health and its impact on work.

Mel Kettle is an internationally recognised expert in leadership and communication, with a significant interest in helping women and organisations better understand the impact of menopause in the workplace. With more than two decades of experience, Mel is a valuable asset to leaders and teams that want to achieve real connection and sustained engagement.