International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for communities and organizations around the world to raise awareness about accelerating gender parity. Each year on March 8th we celebrate International Women’s Day, focusing on the ideas of unity, reflection, advocacy, and action. Here at Phaidon International, we take this day to recognize the impact that women have made in our professional careers and in our personal lives. Members of the Phaidon Family have shared their stories of what International Women’s Day means to them.
Your name, position, how long have you been at Phaidon?
My name is Julie Giaimo and I am a Talent Acquisition Partner. I have been at Phaidon since June of 2017.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
What International Women’s Day means to me, is the evolution of girl power. There was a time not very long ago where the idea of a woman as a presidential candidate wasn’t even plausible. International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate the successes of women in the workplace, politics, sports, and the general society of our world. Things aren’t perfect yet, but days like International Women’s Day stands is a step closer to where we need to be!
Who are the female role models in your life and career?
My Grandmother. Born as a first generation Irish-American in the time of the Great Depression, where financial times were never easy for her and her family. Her family sought out the American Dream, and my Grandmother never let go of that. As a mother, she did not want her family to feel that same financial hardship she had felt growing up. As a women/mother in the ’50s and ’60s, it wasn’t a norm for a woman to be working while also raising 9 children. My Grandfather held a steady job and could get the family by on his wages as an NYPD cop, but my Grandmother wanted to go above and beyond in her own way. She rose to be one of the top saleswomen for Avon, and she loved the competition and chance of being an entrepreneur through a product that she knew well.
The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #Balanceforbetter. What do you think companies can do to create a better gender balance?
Making sure all employees have the same access to opportunities. I think that Phaidon does a great job in the way that we are such a meritocratic business. What’s so great about Phaidon is that we truly value what our employees can add to our business and if you have an idea on how to impact the business, all you need to do is come up with a business plan, pitch it and if you’ve proven you’re value here at Phaidon you can grow with us across multiple functions.
