- “International Women's Day celebrates the social, political and economic achievements of women while focusing world attention on areas requiring further action.”
Though much progress has been made to advance women’s initiatives, the facts are clear that additional investment is not only smart for business but would benefit the global economy.
- Companies with more women on their boards outperform their competition, with a 42 percent higher return in sales, 66 percent higher return on invested capital and 53 percent higher return on equity.
- If women-owned businesses in the U.S. alone were a country, they'd be the fifth largest GDP in the world. And their businesses are growing at twice the rate as US firms as a whole.
- Women reinvest 90 percent of their income back into their families and communities, thereby pulling up our global economy.
Proud to work for Dell
At Dell, we believe we are uniquely positioned to help women overcome obstacles to fulfill their ambitions and reach their full potential. This is not a short-term commitment – we believe it’s our obligation as a company, through a focus on:
- Customers – We support our customers through programs, such as Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) – a vibrant community that unites top global women business owners, providing a supportive atmosphere and access to technology, capital, resources and networking. With past events in China, Brazil, India and Turkey, this year marks our homecoming year, hosting the event in Austin, Texas in June.
- Our people – We strive for a truly diverse and inclusive workplace that encourages women through networks, like our women's employee resource group (more than 45 chapters and 8500+ members globally) and development resources such as mentoring programs.
- Supply chain – Dell is a pioneer in the realm of supply chain diversity; we do business with women-owned companies and partners.
- Communities – We give our time and invest resources to make a difference for the future, by supporting organizations such as Girl Scouts, Catalyst and other organizations working to advance STEM education for girls and expand opportunities for women and business.
Inspire change – continue the conversation
This year during SXSW, I am hosting an International Women’s Day discussion on the impact of education on female economic participation – featuring women leaders from Dermalogica, the UN Foundation, Intel and Girl Rising.
Follow the conversation #SXSW #womensday and share how you are doing your part to pave the way for women to succeed and reach their full potential here on Direct2Dell.
