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Highlights from the 2002 Catalyst Awards Conference
By Annette Richmond
 How does your company treat women? Are they known for groundbreaking initiatives? Or for subtly encouraging the "old boy's" network?
Last month I had the opportunity to attend the 2002 Catalyst Awards Conference, held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City. A nonprofit organization that works to advance women in business, Catalyst honored three companies who have demonstrated their commitment to leveling the playing field: Bayer Corporation, Fannie Mae and Marriott International, Inc.
While diverse in nature, each of these companies has implemented initiatives to develop and maintain a woman-friendly environment. Each has created programs designed to help make senior management a reality for their female employees. While some of their methods differ, their collective goals might have been summed by, Donna Klein, Vice President, Diversity and Workplace Effectiveness, Marriott International, Inc., who stressed the idea of helping women move from contributing roles into positions of leadership.
The daylong conference provided a wonderful venue for networking with women from across the country. The first session I attended was Defining Success in a World Full of Options. In a workshop setting participants, ranging from small businesses owners to executives from major corporations, broke into small groups to discuss how workingwomen define success.
While the answers were as diverse as the women themselves, each group agreed that whatever their position women want opportunity. Moving to senior management may, or may not be, part of their game plan. But, women want to know that they have the choice.
During lunch attendees were treated to a lively panel discussion Leadership in Uncertain Times moderated by Ann Curry, News Anchor, NBC News' Today.
In the afternoon, concurrent sessions provided an opportunity for participants to pick up information and advice from award-winners Bayer Corporation, Fannie Mae and Marriott International, Inc. Panelists from each company were available for Q&A after the presentations.
Whether you're happy where you are or looking for a new position, take some time to think about the opportunities available. Find out whether your current company or a potential employer is committed to helping you develop your career.
With that in mind, ask if the company offers:
- Formal and informal mentoring programs
- Diversity awareness training on an ongoing basis
- Child-care and/or elder-care programs
- Programs that provide the opportunity for international assignments
- Career planning and professional development programs
- Networking opportunities
- Communication with senior management
- Flexible work environment
- Tuition reimbursement
- Commitment to and accountability for the advancement of women
These are just a few of the initiatives put forth by this year's Catalyst honorees. Take a look at your company. See how they measure up. Are you working in a woman-friendly environment? If you're not, maybe it's time to consider a change.
New York City-based Catalyst is a nonprofit research and advisory organization that works to advance women in business. For more information on their services and recent studies visit the website at http://www.catalystwomen.org
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