In a riveting episode of The Speed of Culture podcast, Shelley Zalis, CEO of The Female Quotient, joins Suzy's CEO Matt Britton to discuss her pioneering journey in market research, the challenges of being a woman in tech, and her mission to achieve gender equality in the workplace. Shelley's passion, resilience, and innovative spirit have been instrumental in transforming industries and empowering women globally. Here, we delve into the key takeaways from their conversation and explore how Shelley's insights can inspire and guide us toward a more equitable future.

From Market Research Pioneer to Gender Equality Advocate

Shelley Zalis's career is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. As the founder of OTX (Online Testing Exchange), Shelley revolutionized the market research industry by migrating research from offline to online. This was a groundbreaking move at a time when the internet was still nascent, and few believed in its potential for conducting research. Shelley's conviction and determination were crucial in overcoming the skepticism and resistance she faced.

"I hire for passion, train for skill. I was passionate about what I was doing, resilient. I knew I was onto something, and I wasn't going to stop," Shelley emphasizes. Her journey from traditional research methods to pioneering online research highlights the importance of believing in one's vision and pushing through barriers to achieve transformative results.

The Birth of The Female Quotient

The Female Quotient (FQ) was born out of Shelley's desire to create a supportive network for women in male-dominated industries. The idea originated at CES, a tech trade show where Shelley noticed the glaring gender disparity. She called a few girlfriends to walk the showroom floor together, and what started as a small group quickly grew into a powerful movement.

"Power the Pack: A woman alone has power; collectively, we have an impact," Shelley recalls. This simple yet profound concept led to the creation of The Girls' Lounge, a space for women to connect, collaborate, and support one another at major industry events. Over time, The Girls' Lounge evolved into The Female Quotient, a global community and media brand dedicated to closing the gender gap in the workplace.

Navigating Challenges and Driving Change

Shelley's journey has not been without its challenges. As a woman in tech and a pioneer in online research, she faced significant resistance from industry incumbents. However, her innovative approach and determination to prove the value of online research eventually won over skeptics.

To gain client trust, Shelley parallel-tested online data against traditional mall data, providing free data to demonstrate the reliability and efficiency of her methods. This strategy not only validated her approach but also paved the way for widespread adoption of online research.

"I always said to myself, I need to be the first. I'm going to be the second. And I am going to be the third because no one will beat me at my own game," Shelley reflects. Her ability to adapt, innovate, and persist in the face of adversity is a powerful lesson for entrepreneurs and leaders across industries.

The Impact of The Female Quotient

Today, The Female Quotient is a leading force in promoting gender equality in the workplace. By partnering with Fortune 500 companies and creating spaces for women to connect and collaborate, FQ is driving meaningful change. Shelley's efforts have not only provided a platform for women but have also influenced corporate policies and practices to be more inclusive and equitable.

At the World Economic Forum, FQ has become a key player in discussions on gender equality, with standing-room-only events and high-profile speakers like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. This visibility and influence underscore the importance of intentional action in achieving gender parity.

Actionable Insights for Leaders

For leaders looking to promote gender equality in their organizations, Shelley's advice is clear: prioritize intentional action and create inclusive policies. She emphasizes that closing the gender gap is within our control and requires a mindset shift.

"Realize that of all the Sustainable Development Goals, gender equality is the only one you can control and do. It's a mindset gap," Shelley asserts. She encourages leaders to address the pay gap, leadership gap, and care gap by implementing data-driven policies and fostering a culture of inclusion.

Additionally, Shelley highlights the importance of self-belief and resilience for women in the workplace. Her own journey is a powerful example of how passion, conviction, and perseverance can drive success and inspire others to achieve their potential.

The Future of Gender Equality

Looking ahead, Shelley's vision for The Female Quotient is to continue expanding its impact and reach. By leveraging technology and building on its media and advisory capabilities, FQ aims to be a catalyst for global change. Shelley's commitment to rewriting the rules and challenging the status quo is a beacon of hope for women striving to make their mark in various industries.

"The World Economic Forum says it'll take 131 years to close the gender gap. We say not on our watch. It is a mindset gap, and if we want it, we can do it," Shelley declares. Her unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable world serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible with collective effort and intentional action.

Shelley Zalis's story is a compelling example of how passion, resilience, and innovation can drive significant change. From pioneering online market research to championing gender equality through The Female Quotient, Shelley's journey offers valuable insights and inspiration for leaders and entrepreneurs alike. By prioritizing intentional action, fostering inclusive cultures, and believing in our potential, we can create a more equitable and just world for all.