International Women’s Day 2023 – An interview with Jackie Buckley

This year for International Women’s Day we have spoken with Jackie Buckley, Partnerships Secretary here at HartDixon on her thoughts and how she plans to #EmbraceEquity.

Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

Women deserve to be celebrated! We don’t often get the recognition we deserve, despite the strides made in the world of feminism and equality. Most of the women I know are funny, smart, independent and cool as hell. IWD reminds me how proud I am to know them.

Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?

Being patronised is one of the biggest stumbling blocks, next to being undervalued and underpaid in nearly all my previous roles despite having years of experience. I turned down roles offering me offensively low salaries and honestly, it wasn’t until joining HD that I felt valued.

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

Never be afraid to ask questions.

How can we encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship or senior leadership roles in their careers?

There are two elements to this. We need to be able to see more women in senior leadership roles to motivate others to do the same. Having belief in what you have to offer is key- easier said than done I know. Pursuing goals such as stepping into senior positions mean nothing without taking action; research the role you want, take online courses and network with others in similar positions.

What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?

It’s ok if you don’t know exactly what you want to be when you start out. Life should be about exploration! Gather as much experience as you can, you’ll slowly start to refine your skills, learn what area you want to work in and head in that direction.

Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?

My cousin inspires me! We worked together in my first office job when I was 19, she was the one who told me not to be afraid to ask questions. She’s smart, switched on and uses her initiative, qualities I really admire.

If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

Jane Fonda – I’m obsessed with Jane Fonda! For me, she’s the embodiment of integrity; she uses her platform to help others and she’s extremely talented.

Mel Robbins – a smart, no-nonsense life coach and motivational speaker. I’ve read most of her books, I love how she uses science-backed tools to help people become more confident and fulfilled.

Maya Angelou – I’ve loved her poetry since reading it at secondary school,  what a wise woman.

#EmbraceEquity