To mark International Women's Day today, Swinson (pictured) who is also minister for women and equalities has also backed a voluntary initiative 'Think, Act, Report", a scheme that encourages employers to think about women's equality in the workplace and now covers 1.3 million employees.
Swinson said: "While government can help reform the business environment, encouraging women to invest time in planning their careers will result in a stronger pipeline of talented women coming through that will benefit everyone."
She added: "Drawing on women's talent is crucial to growing our economy."
The need for women to take personal responsibility for their career development has been highlighted in a report published by women's network group, everywoman and talent solutions firm Alexander Mann.
The Focus on the Pipeline report shows that 63% of HR leaders want to see women driving their own advancement. However, many female middle managers expect their employers to take much – if not all – of the responsibility for career path clarity and opportunities for progression.
The report stated that it's equally important for existing and potential female business owners to take charge of their own development and acquire the skills to support them as they grow their enterprises.
Maxine Benson, co-founder of everywoman, said: "Whatever level you're at, you'll be better equipped to navigate your way towards a fulfilling career if you drive your own development and work towards clear goals.
"Many skills aren't generally taught at school or in further education – such as leadership, networking, presenting and delegating - and they are crucial to getting ahead.
"It often feels like a luxury to focus on ourselves but it's critical and also extremely empowering."
'Ambition Hour', is an everywoman network campaign and is calling on women who work either for organisations or for themselves, to pledge one hour a week to explore their career goals and implement a plan to make them a reality.
