Did you know that 62% of menopausal women in the UK feel like their work has suffered because of their symptoms? This is one of the striking statistics shared by Beverley Lockett in her book Management, Menopause and Me.
She argues that as the workforce in the Western world is getting older, due to lower birth rates and a higher retirement age, the needs of the older workforce must be considered. This is especially true for those of women experiencing menopause, as nature unleashes an enormous amount of stress on their bodies. Lockett argues that there should be less hesitation to discuss this topic in the workplace, especially by managers. Fear and misunderstanding can prevent them from having an effective dialogue with their team. But this silence only perpetuates the taboo. This is why managers should practise effective and non-judgemental listening towards their menopausal team members.
There are also lots of simple adjustments that a business or manager can offer, so women can continue to thrive, in spite of their menopausal symptoms. Here are some of Lockett’s suggestions:
- Consider flexible working. Can you imagine only having got a few hours of sleep due to menopause symptoms? The ability to have flexible working hours could make all the difference.
- Requesting a different (or more) uniform if they are experiencing hot flushes. If they are sweating through every uniform every day and it needs washing, drying, and ironing before the next working day, this puts extra pressure on them. Giving these women extra uniforms can make a difference. Or even allowing shorter sleeves, natural fibres or open collars - all can help with hot flushes.
- Allowing them to move to a cooler part of the office, such as near a window which can open or provide a fan. This seems a simple request but sometimes the window desks are prized!
- Allowing more time for meeting preparation to help with ‘brain fog’.
- Being close to toilets and drinking water. This sounds so simple, but some offices are not near cool drinking water,
- Being able to take regular breaks. With sleep disturbance comes fatigue, having somewhere quiet where they can stop thinking for a few minutes allows their brain to recover.
If you have a staff member say they are experiencing menopause, Lockett strongly advises you to ask them if any simple adjustments could be made to make their lives easier. They do not have to cost a lot but could keep that fabulous team member with you.
Want to dive deeper into this topic? Management, Menopause and Me is available in our library.
