The Untapped Power of Menopausal Women

Never Underestimate the Leadership and Buying Power of this Demographic

Jun 13, 2024

(Note - This post was expands on something I wrote in a bit of a flurry on LinkedIn earlier to share that I’d completed a certification. I decided I wanted to share it here as well for longevity.)

Women over 50 are a force to be reckoned with, both as consumers and leaders. They make up 27% of all consumer spending, which is 3% more than men of the same age, and wield an astounding $15 trillion in purchasing power. This demographic is not only the largest with incomes over $100K but also controls 95% of household purchasing and 80% of travel spending【source: AARP and The Guardian】. Businesses that fail to recognize and cater to the needs of peri- and menopausal women are missing out on a significant market segment.

Understanding the Menopausal Transition

The menopausal transition is a critical phase in a woman's life that can span several years. Here are some essential facts to consider:

1. Longevity of Life Post-Menopause: One-third of the average woman's life will be lived after menopause, underscoring its importance.

2. Duration of Transition: Perimenopause can start in the 30s and last for 4 to 8 years. Menopause itself generally occurs between 40 and 58 years, with the average age being 51. Symptoms can persist for up to a decade.

3. Health Implications: The reduction and fluctuation in hormones during this time can lead to various physical and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, sexual issues, and declines in physical and mental strength. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe consequences such as bone density loss and cognitive decline.

4. Need for Open Conversation: Just as with other significant life phases like menstruation, pregnancy, and postpartum, women need to talk openly about menopause. Men, too, need to pay attention unless they wish to remain shortsighted leaders, partners, or friends.

5. Visibility and Impact: Despite often being written about in dull and invisible terms, menopausal women are far from invisible. They possess the financial resources, time, and education to make a substantial impact, and businesses must take note.

Empowering Menopausal Women in Business

The role of peri- and menopausal women in business success cannot be overstated. They bring unique perspectives and experiences that are invaluable to leadership and decision-making processes. Here are a few ways businesses can support and empower these women:

Recognize and Value Experience: Menopausal women have decades of professional and personal experience that can provide profound insights and leadership.
Foster an Inclusive Culture: Create a workplace environment that acknowledges and supports the unique challenges faced by menopausal women.
Promote Open Dialogue: Encourage conversations about menopause and provide resources and support for women navigating this phase.
Offer Flexibility: Flexible work arrangements can help women manage symptoms and maintain productivity.

Investing in Knowledge and Support

To better understand and support this season of life, I invested the last six months in obtaining a certification as a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist (CMCS) from Girls Gone Strong. This certification has equipped me with the knowledge and tools to support my clients and the men in their lives effectively.

Conclusion

Peri- and menopausal women are a powerful and influential demographic that businesses cannot afford to ignore. By recognizing their value, fostering inclusive workplaces, and providing the necessary support, companies can harness the full potential of these remarkable women. As a newly certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, I am committed to helping women navigate this phase of life and empowering them to continue making significant contributions to the business world.

Let's ensure that the voices and experiences of menopausal women are heard and valued. The success of your business may very well depend on it.