This is a question I have been asked on repeat for the past 6 years.
It usually comes within the Q&A session of my Informative and Supportive Menopause Presentation, and I always have the same answer…
“Unfortunately, I don’t know your manager and can’t advise of the best approach. However, I recommend your manager attends my Managers Menopause Awareness Presentation.”
When managers have attended my presentation, they leave feeling armed with information, signposting support, and a greater understanding of the topic. They are reassured that they are not expected to be menopause experts or have all the answers, but they will be able to have a more confident and comfortable conversation, if needed.
Managers who simply attend are already making a huge difference to those they manage.
Imagine you are a menopausal woman who is acutely aware that your manager chose not to attend the menopause presentation for managers in your workplace. How would that make you feel and how would that impact your relationship with your manager let alone your productivity and engagement?
I’ve witnessed incredible managers who have wholeheartedly supported their menopausal colleagues. They have understood they are not there to ‘fix’ them, but their support has created an incredible ongoing working relationship and at times prevented their colleagues leaving their place of work.
Of course, I’ve also witnessed the complete opposite. You only have to search menopause related tribunal cases to see for yourself. A recent payment was in the sum of £37,000.00.
The cost to a business of not addressing, understanding, and supporting menopause in the workplace is now too high to ignore.
Here are some of the benefits of doing so:
- Reduced attrition
- Reduced sick leave
- Reduced risk of a claim
- Confident and approachable managers
- Improved culture
- Increase in productivity, engagement, and loyalty
- It’s the right thing to do
Let’s continue to break down the taboo around this topic and improve your workplace for all.
