'This is a great read; the scenarios Lauren highlights are very powerful (and sometimes cringeworthy) examples of what really happens in organisations and which must continue to be addressed. I absolutely love the ‘top tips’ sections and will be revisiting these!' Lisa Waterhouse, Head of UK Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, National Grid
'A great and easy read addressing much-needed conversations around inclusion – five stars!' Vanessa Vallely OBE, Founder and CEO, WeAreTheCity and WeAreTechWomen
'Essential reading for every male leader who aspires to ethical inclusive leadership.' Richard Pickard, CEO Inclusive Search Ltd
'Lauren Neal is a true champion for women working in the challenging field of STEM. Her book gives incredible insights into gender equity and career progression for women in this field through her engaging with the dialogue of men in this male-dominated arena and their views and behaviour. One realises from the book that the motivation for making changes are critical to sustain action and plan outcomes – it definitely leaves us with hope for the future.' Pinky Lilani CBE DL, Founder and Chairman of Women of the Future Programme
'Outstanding! This is the book that I wish I had at the start of my allyship journey. A refreshingly practical and non-judgemental guide for anyone looking to become an active ally.' Lee Chambers, Psychologist and Founder of Essentialise Workplace Wellbeing
'A powerful blend of story, insight and advice. This is an unusual book about an important woven through the story of two fictional male leaders trying to address bias at work are stories which will resonate with women in STEM, along with advice for organisations. Easy to read – and well worth reading!' Kathryn Bishop CBE, Associate Fellow at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Your gender stats are tumbling, women aren’t advancing, their feedback is poor, and too many are leaving. What’s going on?
Women navigating a traditionally male-dominated technical sector too frequently feel invisible, frustrated, and undervalued in the workplace. Lauren Neal has been there, and she’s developed tried-and-tested approaches that male-dominated organizations can take to motivate and retain women. Because only a truly empowered, diverse workforce can drive the best business outcomes and innovations.
Inspired by real-life stories, Valued at Work gives you the tools to take control and drive real change without alienating any of the workforce!
Lauren Neal is an award-winning chartered engineer and chartered project professional in the energy industry. Having worked with men and women offshore, onshore and onsite on multimillion-dollar projects across the globe since 2005, she is a sought-after speaker and writer championing gender equity within STEM.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
In the realm of STEM, where the gender gap is as persistent as it is perplexing, Lauren Neal’s “Valued at Work” emerges as a beacon of hope and a pragmatic guide. Neal, an award-winning chartered engineer, delves into the intricate web of biases that often go unnoticed yet significantly hinder the progress and retention of women in STEM fields.
The book is structured in a way that feels both personal and universal. Neal’s narrative is interwoven with real-life stories that resonate with authenticity and urgency. She doesn’t just highlight the problems; she offers a toolbox of solutions that are both innovative and practical. Her approach is not one of blame but of understanding and action.
One of the book’s strengths is its ability to speak to a wide audience. Whether you’re a male ally, a female professional in STEM, or a leader looking to foster a more inclusive environment, there’s something in this book for you. Neal’s writing is accessible, avoiding jargon that might alienate non-specialists, yet it’s detailed enough to provide valuable insights to those well-versed in the subject.
“Valued at Work” is a roadmap for change. It challenges organizations to look beyond mere statistics and focus on creating a culture where women are not just present but are truly valued. Neal’s top tips and case studies provide a clear direction for those ready to embark on this necessary journey.
Neal’s work is a compelling blend of personal experience, rigorous research, and actionable advice. It’s a must-read for anyone committed to bridging the gender gap in STEM and creating a workplace where diversity is not just welcomed but celebrated.