Absolutely, envisioning a world characterized by gender equality is a powerful aspiration. 

We do – which is why we’re excited by the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day!

If International Women’s Day (IWD) is new to you, stick with me and I’ll explain. 

IWD is a globally recognised day that celebrates the social, political, cultural, and economic achievements of women. And encourages everyone to accelerate equality for women around the world.

This is a cause that Fempire is 110% behind. As we continually aim to support and help female coaches, business owners and managers feel equipped. And confident in themselves and in their ability to succeed in the business world.

Every year, a theme is chosen for International Women’s Day. Furthermore, it sheds light on an issue that significantly affects women globally.

Break the Bias

This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias. Bias plays a large – if predominantly subconscious – role in our lives and the way we think. And can often make it difficult for women to get ahead in their lives and to break damaging stereotypes. 

The theme stems from the idea that simply being aware of bias isn’t enough. That we need to actively call out gender bias, stereotyping, and discrimination when we see it. 

Bias is unfortunately common in the entrepreneurial world. 

Studies suggest that over a third of women entrepreneurs have directly experienced gender bias. Which affects many aspects of running a business. For example, on average women receive only 3% of VC funding. And many women don’t have the confidence to even look for outside funding in the first place. 

On average women receive only 3% of VC funding, and many women don’t have the confidence to even look for outside funding in the first place.   Click To Tweet

Every year more and more women take a chance on themselves by starting their own business. But we still have work to do in dismantling the barriers to entry caused by bias and gender inequality.  

So while we may officially celebrate on the 8th of March, International Women’s Day is more than just a day. It’s a reminder that we need to keep working hard towards a more equal future. 

International Women’s Day is more than just a day, it’s a reminder that we need to keep working hard towards a more equal future. 

No matter where it happens, whether it’s in your community, in schools, or in the workplace. It’s important to call out bias when you see it. 

Celebrating International Women’s Day

Women-owned businesses aren’t the only ones who can celebrate IWD. In fact, we encourage all types of businesses to get on board with gender equality in the marketplace. After all, feminism is for men, too.

No matter how you choose to observe IWD, no matter what type of campaign you choose to run. First make sure what you choose will have the maximum benefit for the IWD movement, for your target market, and for your business.

Get Creative

Your business is unique; unlike any other. And so, the celebration you plan for IWD should be just as unique. That doesn’t mean you have to come up with it all on your own, though. Fempire would like to offer a few ideas you can use to kickstart your creativity.

1. Tell your Story

As a woman in business, you have a story. How you got there, how you learned about your passion, how you want to help others. And everyone loves a good story. Tell that story, publish it on your website, and tie it to IWD. Be sure to keep your target market in mind as you tell your story, so they can see commonalities. As well as how you’re distinctly qualified to help them.

2. Ask for their Stories

How many women in your audience have made great strides in the name of equality? How many people have challenged stereotypes or accomplished things they were told they couldn’t do? Invite them to tell their stories (and stories of women they know). To get your sisterhood excited about what women are accomplishing.

3. Run a Contest

Who doesn’t like to win something? And be recognised for it? Sponsor an essay contest, a product-naming contest, a photo contest – anything that unites your ideal customer with your business – and then marry it all to this year’s IWD theme, #BreakTheBias.

4. Make a Special Offer

Slash a price for one day only, and they will come. Use this special occasion to make a special offer on your most popular product (or on a newly introduced product) and require customers to use a code related to IWD to claim that discount.

5. Host a Party

Designing a unique party or fun event creates memorable face-to-face experiences that leave a lasting impression, ensuring your business stays in the memory of attendees. Host it on IWD, with IWD Event Packs, and you’ll make connections with those people who are also concerned with equality.

6. Run a Social Media Campaign

There are two hashtags associated with International Women’s Day this year, and they are #IWD2022 and #breakthebias. Use them to raise awareness and invite conversation on your social media channels.

You can also participate in International Women’s Day’s challenge by striking the Break the Bias pose and posting it on your social media as a commitment to help in the fight against gender inequality. And if you want your photo to be featured by International Women’s Day, you can submit it to their website.

All you have to do is pose like this 👇

IWD is an important day that can – and should – be celebrated by all; no matter gender, country, industry, or group.

As Gloria Steinem said, “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” 

So make sure that you go out and celebrate International Women’s Day this year – we know we will! 

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And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to join in on our IWD celebrations! 

How are you planning to celebrate International Women’s Day? Let us know in the comments!