International Women’s Day: Supporting Women Through Skills and Training

As International Women’s Day is on Sunday 8th March, it's only right we celebrate the achievements of women across the public sector. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the practical steps organisations can take to create workplaces where women are supported, valued and able to thrive. While awareness of gender equity has grown, lasting change requires both cultural commitment and investment in skills development.

At ModernGov, we believe that targeted training is one of the most effective ways to empower women, address skills gaps and strengthen capability across teams.

Despite progress, women continue to encounter structural and cultural barriers at different stages of their careers. Early and mid-career professionals often face challenges around confidence, visibility and accessing leadership opportunities. Many women report feeling hesitant to put themselves forward for roles unless they meet every listed requirement, while imposter syndrome can limit participation in high-stakes discussions. 

Later in careers, life transitions such as returning from maternity leave or managing childcare responsibilities can create additional challenges. Women may need support to regain confidence, catch up on organisational changes, or navigate flexible working arrangements. Training and mentoring during these stages helps women reintegrate successfully, build confidence and continue progressing in their careers.

Addressing these challenges isn’t about “fixing” women, it’s about creating workplaces that recognise gaps and actively equip teams to succeed.

Supporting Women at Every Career Stage

Women’s development needs evolve throughout their careers and recognising this is key to providing meaningful support.

• Early Career: Training focused on confidence and communication helps women articulate ideas clearly, navigate challenging conversations and establish visibility within teams. These foundational skills prepare them for future leadership opportunities.
• Mid-Career: Leadership development programmes support progression by building strategic thinking, decision-making confidence and authentic leadership styles. Peer learning and practical exercises ensure women feel prepared to take the next step.
• Life Transitions:  Later in careers, life changes such as returning from maternity leave, managing childcare responsibilities or experiencing menopause can introduce additional challenges. Women may need support to regain confidence, catch up on organisational changes, or navigate flexible working arrangements. Training that educates both employees and managers creates understanding, reduces stigma and helps individuals continue contributing effectively. 

By adopting a holistic approach to development, organisations ensure that women have the tools, skills and confidence to thrive at every stage of their careers.

Our Training Programmes for Women

Practical training is central to empowering women in the workplace. At ModernGov, we offer three specialist courses that support women’s development across different stages of their careers:

• Women in Leadership – Builds strategic thinking, decision-making confidence and authentic leadership, helping women progress into senior roles.
• Confident Communication for Women in the Workplace – Equips women to navigate challenging conversations, increase visibility and communicate assertively.
• Supporting Staff Through the Menopause – Raises awareness, reduces stigma and provides strategies for managers and teams to support colleagues, prioritising wellbeing and retention.

Combining these courses with an inclusive organisational culture helps close skills gaps, boost confidence and create a workforce where women can thrive.

Taking Action

International Women’s Day is an important reminder of achievements, but meaningful impact comes from sustained action. Organisations that invest in high-quality training and create inclusive workplaces demonstrate that they value women’s contributions, support progression, and provide the tools for long-term success.

By focusing on skills, confidence and culture, organisations can move beyond awareness to create real, lasting change, ensuring that women have the support, opportunities, and development they need to succeed at every stage of their careers.