New research shows a lack of confidence, fear of failure and being judged are the main factors holding women back from success, rather than their natural abilities.
Photo: 123RF
More than 1500 men and women took part in research by Talbot Mills for the ANZ Bank NZ, in an effort to find the key to women's success in work, education, social activities and sport.
"Despite all the progress that's been made by women, confidence, fear of failure and fear of judgement still hold women back," ANZ Bank NZ chief executive Antonia Watson said.
The report dubbed 'Watch Women Win' consistently indicated motivation and role models, encouragement and solutions, and benefits to increasing participation and development were the key to helping women to succeed rather than natural ability.
"Initially, the research focused on women in sport, given ANZ's long-time support of women's sport, including as the newly-announced sponsors of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup (2022)," she said.
"However, what emerged with the Watch Women Win research was a wider set of insights, providing a platform we hope will contribute to long-term change for all New Zealand women."
The survey has found two thirds (64 percent) of female respondents felt successful women did not receive as much recognition as men and were more likely to experience self-doubt in three-of-the-four areas studied - work, social settings and schooling, but less so in sports.
"It's all about inspiring girls and women to re-think what winning looks like," Watson said.
"We must show up and proudly cheer on women's achievements, whether it's female cricketers competing on the world stage next year or seeing our colleagues' success recognised on an even playing field in the workplace."
Watson said she intended to help counter that lack of recognition by sharing more stories about women's successes.
"It's all about inspiring girls and women to re-think what winning looks like."
