Social mobility is the movement of individuals or families within or between social strata of a society. The availability of at least some social mobility can be important in providing pathways to greater equality in societies with high social inequality, such as the UK. Studies suggest that professionals from underrepresented backgrounds can find it more difficult to achieve career progression. These individuals have less access to the appropriate networks and support; they are less likely to know how to navigate the system. Increasing social mobility is a practical way for businesses to make a difference to social inequality and improve their own workforce in the process.

In order to achieve upward social mobility, professionals from underrepresented backgrounds must consider if they are willing to adapt their personal characteristics in order to be accepted into dominant working cultures. Professionals may contemplate dramatically changing their accents, dress codes, hairstyles and other aspects of their personal identity in order to overcome social structures that could impeded their career progression. As a consequence, YDWC will be hosting an internal debate at Willis Towers Watson on the motion:

“This House Believes That disadvantaged groups should emphasise their conformity with, rather than distinctiveness from, dominant culture, as a strategy for improving their social position”.

This members-only event is not open to the General Public.