Often reserved for those who have the influence and power to make decisions and effect change, the table has become a symbol of authority, negotiation and credibility.

Suad Merchant,  Head of Brand & Communications for Mashreq Bank

Essentially, it should mean that the person “at the table” gets the same opportunities as everyone else to listen, share, define, and influence without retribution.

Unfortunately and usually, the “seat” is really not “at the table” but far from it.

But it’s not just about coming to the table and taking a seat. There’s more to it than that.

We talk a lot about having “a seat at the table” while discussing women and people influencing or deciding upon company strategy. The question is, what does having a seat at a table actually mean?

I have witnessed many times that an employee is included in discussions yet ignored frequently. Ironically, she is still acknowledged to “have a seat at the table”. But what about being included in conversations and being reprimanded for speaking up? And/Or being invited to the discussion but expected to only agree or voice their perspective when given permission?

Well, in my opinion, I believe this is a two-way street. Let me explain.

The only permission you need to stop playing small is your own. And hence, when the opportunity is small, ask for it to become significant! If you are invited to play a diminutive game, turn the invitation around ask to play a larger game.

You may be invited to have a seat at the table, but ask yourself, what have you been doing to ensure that you continue to have it? Have you been contributing, collaborating or engaging? Are you putting a genuine effort at keeping that seat at the table?

Stay engaged and persistent and navigate the ups and downs. And no, you should never feel like you ought to “earn” that seat if you are at the correct position level and expertise. The seat belongs to you just as much as it belongs to your peer. So speak up, but always aspire to enhance yourself and grow yourself.

Look! In the end, the choice is all yours!

Ask the question to yourself.. Are you on that seat merely by coincidence or because an organisation is pushing its gender diversity agenda? Do you really deserve it?

If you are at that table, ensure that you make it worthwhile.

I don’t believe women’s empowerment should be discussed without bringing a man’s perspective into the same conversation. Being a male or a woman doesn’t make it any better.

Remember – human nature is surprisingly universal and universally disappointing.

Most people hide behind such an agenda due to their own insecurities. In the name of empowerment and equality, they are trying to further their own agenda and find their voice. Well, I’d say good for them! But I guess at times, one’s tragedy can be another’s opportunity.

Be secure in knowing that you can develop your own point of view and that it’s very possible to do it with kindness.

I believe in challenging the status quo, being curious, investing time in what matters, making it meaningful and worthwhile, and, most importantly, surrounding myself with those who believe in lifting others.

So, in the future, if the prospect of getting a seat at the table presents itself, welcome it. Look at it as an opportunity to be heard and a chance to make a difference and use it wisely.

Happy women’s day ladies!