International Women's Day - Meet Nicky Geraghty
This International Women's Day we're celebrating some of the amazing women who make up True North.
Today we meet Nicky Geraghty, Senior Marketing Executive at True North.
How long have you worked for True North?
Five months, but I've worked in hospitality on and off for nearly ten years.
What is your favourite thing about working at True North?
I love the people and being part of a business that is at the heart of multiple communities.
What does International Women's Day mean to you?
To me, it's a day for everyone to celebrate women and our achievements. It's also a day to remember that there are still struggles, discrimination and biases (whether conscious or unconscious) that we go through every day, both in our careers and personal lives.
What challenges do women face in the hospitality industry?
Being a woman in hospitality can be HARD! Daily micro-aggressions and being undermined are common from some customers, especially when it comes to beer - the number of times I've had people question my knowledge, or just completely overlook me for my nearest male colleague is INFURIATING! I am a woman; I know a lot about beer... believe it or not I can answer your question if you'd just listen to me!
Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?
Life is diverse, and so our workplaces should be too. We need to listen to and understand the experiences and perspectives of people who are different to us to ensure we are always doing better, and our businesses reflect the communities that they serve.
By opening up to even more diversity in the workplace, we can open up our businesses to customers that we might not have had access to before.
How could you contribute your wisdom and expertise to empower other women, both in the hospitality industry and out?
Women don't go to work to be gawped at or harassed and sometimes when you're working behind a bar that's how it can feel. So, don't be afraid to stand up for yourself or others when you know someone's words or actions are wrong, or at least let a colleague or manager know - you have a right to feel safe and respected at work.
Keep doing your job, working hard, and don't let ANYONE make you feel as if you don't belong in the industry you've chosen to build your career in - if you want to be there, you most definitely belong there!
Is there anyone who inspires you in your career?
My cousin Jayne, who takes on low performing pubs, works harder than most people I know, and turns them around into successful businesses and community hubs. After working jobs in industries I didn't particularly enjoy or understand, she made me realise that a career in hospitality is a completely valid career choice. She also taught me not to take any s*** from anyone!
If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Captain Sandy Yawn (IYKYK), because she's completely badass with an incredible work ethic and an inspiring leadership style. I'd love to hear about all her life experiences as well as career experiences.
Malin Andersson for always being unapologetically herself on social media and sharing her personal struggles with her body image, mental health, and grief.
My best friend Etain, as she is one of the strongest women I'm lucky enough to know, all whilst remaining completely wonderful, selfless, and passionate about making the most of life. She lives in Bristol so I don't get to have dinner with her as much as I wish I could!
