This week saw Accenture engage in a new initiative to dispel the notion that consulting is a man’s game and to attract more women into their business.
To mark International Women’s Day, and as part of Accenture’s current recruitment drive in the UK, over 150 women interested in a career in consulting attended an Accenture networking evening for women at 30 St Mary Axe (otherwise known as the "Gherkin").
For those outside consulting, the industry often comes across as being dominated by males. Yet this is more perception than reality and Accenture’s event this week will hopefully have redressed the balance for all those able to attend.
The evening consisted of a series of informal presentations about Accenture as well as the chance to talk informally and discreetly to Accenture consultants, while taking in views across London. The presentations covered issues such as the retention and promotion of female talent; career development; support for working parents; and developing effective networks.
Following the event, feedback from Accenture employees and delegates was universally positive, with one delegate commenting: "It was a wonderful event. I was inspired by the speakers and am now very interested to advance a career at Accenture."
Antonia Johnston, Accenture’s head of recruitment, said: "This is the first event we have run of this kind. It demonstrated how working women value their careers and the ability to network. I was impressed by the calibre and ambition of the women that attended and as a result am feeling very positive about fulfilling our recruitment drive."
Accenture has some heady recruitment targets to hit. As a result of growing business demand is embarking on a significant recruitment drive in the UK. March 2005 is Accenture’s "careers month", whereby Accenture will launch a recruitment drive to attract 2,700 new hires this year.
Johnston commented: "There is also are a number of other events throughout March to come and meet our people and talk about what a career at Accenture means. These range from open evenings in Manchester, London and Newcastle and an event specifically for recent graduates."
For more information, readers should visit www.accenture.com/march