Experts call for challenging of outdated perceptions

At the e4m PR & Corp Comm Women's Achiever Summit, a panel of industry experts deliberated on the challenges and opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated field

by e4m Staff
Published: Mar 11, 2025 12:46 PM | 4 min read

e4m Women's Achiever Summit

The e4m PR & Corp Comm Women's Achiever Summit brought together a panel of distinguished women leaders in the public relations and communications industry to discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated field. The panel, moderated by Madhavi Chaudhary, Communication Advisor at Media Mic, featured Tanya Singh, Corporate Communications Director at Doceree; Akanksha Jain, AVP of PR and Comms at Swiggy; and Madhurima Bhatia, PR Head and Media Engagement & Partnerships at Ipsos.

The session began with a discussion on the opportunities for women to reshape leadership models in the PR industry. Despite women making up a significant portion of the workforce, the industry remains male-dominated. The panelists emphasized the need for women to challenge outdated perceptions and take on more strategic roles within organizations.

Madhavi Chaudhary highlighted the importance of women being seen as strategic partners rather than just support functions. She shared her experience of working in a gender-neutral organization but noted that the perception of PR as a cost center rather than a business driver still persists. She urged women to break away from these shackles by thinking more strategically and presenting their ideas logically.

Tanya Singh echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for women to speak up and make their voices heard. She pointed out that PR professionals often face the challenge of being seen as less important than those who directly bring in business. However, she stressed that the indirect impact of PR on brand reputation and business growth is significant and should be recognized.

The panelists also discussed the unique hurdles women face in leadership roles, from unconscious bias to balancing multiple expectations. Akanksha Jain shared her experience of being the only woman in a room full of male leaders and the discomfort that often arises in such situations. She noted that women are often perceived as aggressive when they speak their minds, making it difficult to rise through the ranks.

Madhurima Bhatia added that women often create their own glass ceilings by doubting their abilities and not self-promoting. She emphasized the importance of standing up for oneself and negotiating for what one deserves, especially when it comes to pay parity. She shared instances where women were asked inappropriate questions about their marital status or plans for having children, highlighting the need for systemic change.

The conversation then shifted to how organizations can actively support female professionals and foster diversity and equity within PR teams. The panelists agreed that recognition of the PR function's importance is crucial. Akanksha Jain pointed out that PR professionals often get short shrift compared to other departments like HR, despite playing a critical role in shaping a company's reputation.

Madhurima Bhatia stressed the importance of leadership commitment to diversity and inclusion. She shared her experience of working in an organization with a 50/50 gender representation in the leadership team and the positive impact of having supportive male mentors. She emphasized the need for mentorship programs and platforms where women can share their experiences and learn from each other.

The panelists also discussed the steps industry leaders can take to create pathways for emerging female talent. Tanya Singh highlighted the importance of mentorship, especially for young women entering the industry. She shared her own journey of transitioning from a computer engineering background to PR, crediting her success to the guidance she received from mentors.

Madhavi Chaudhary suggested that mentorship should be a way of life, with women leaders sharing their stories and challenges to inspire others. She also proposed the creation of communities where women can interact and support each other on an ongoing basis.

In the final segment, the panelists were asked what immediate action companies could take to empower women in PR. Madhurima Bhatia called for PR professionals to be given a seat at the table in boardrooms and executive committees. She emphasized the need for recognition of the strategic role PR plays in driving business growth.

Tanya Singh added that organizations should conduct a sense check to understand where they stand in terms of empowering women and take steps to address gaps at all levels. She also highlighted the need for salary standardization at the top levels to ensure pay parity.

Akanksha Jain stressed the importance of skilling women across all levels and leveraging their potential to bring out the best in the organization. She urged CEOs and CXOs to recognize the cerebral capacity and intuition that women bring to the table.

The session concluded with a call to action for both women and organizations to work together to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable PR industry. The panelists emphasized the importance of mentorship, self-advocacy, and organizational support in empowering women to take on leadership roles and drive meaningful change.