Best practices to support women directors.

• Author: Shapiro, Lynn
• Position: LEADERSHIP

From Answering the Call by Lynn Shapiro Snyder and Robert D. Reif. Copyright 2007 and published by Women Business Leaders of the U.S. Health Care Industry Foundation (www.womenleadingheaIthcare.org).

IN A GENDER-DIVERSE BOARDROOM, men can contribute to the successful participation of women, and, therefore, to the success of the board itself. Consider the following list (taken from a Wellesley Centers for Women report):

* Be sure that a woman's comments are heard; if the conversation goes on as though the woman has not spoken, reinforce what she has said and give her credit for it.

* If you notice a woman being ignored or slighted, let her know you see what is happening and then make it clear to others that you don't view this as acceptable board behavior.

* Be aware of informal occasions (golf for example) where women directors are not present and board business is discussed.

* Find time and ways to get to know the women informally to the same extent that you get to know the other men.

* Don't expect women to raise gender and diversity issues by themselves; be alert and take initiative to...