March is Women’s Month. But it isn’t just about celebrating womanhood. It is also about pushing for greater equality and inclusivity for them. And one of the areas where this becomes more crucial is in the workplace. So, how do we push for greater gender equality here?
The Challenges Women Face In The Workplace
While we might say there has been significant progress for women in the workplace in the last few decades, they still face many challenges. Understanding these challenges and how to overcome them will help you push for greater inclusivity and equality in your office.
The Gender Pay Gap
One of the biggest challenges women face in the workplace is the pay inequality. According to the latest statistics, the average worldwide pay gap is at 17%. That means that women still make this much less than their male counterparts in the same position.
However, that gap can vary from country to country. In the Philippines, for example, the gap can be as much as 22%. That means women make only 78% of the earnings men here get. Such pay gaps have significant socioeconomic implications for them and their families.
So, why the gap? One of the reasons is the uneven distribution of roles in the workplace. More men than women can secure higher positions that give them better pay. Here often lies the assumption that these roles require long hours and constant presence. And the argument is that women can’t accomplish that due to their home responsibilities.
However, the bigger reason is that companies are not paying women the same rate for the same job. That ities to the larger notion that men are more capable than women in different roles. While this has been dispelled in the last few decades, it still influences the issue of pay inequality.
A Bias Against Mothers
You often hear that motherhood is a blessing for women. But it also becomes a burden on their careers. Companies often pass on applicants who are mothers because of the perceived conflict between their maternal responsibilities and the work at hand. The argument is that such responsibilities can impede their performance on the job.
And it isn’t limited to actual mothers. All women of childbearing age face this roadblock. Hiring managers go with the assumption that these women might end up having children later. They argue that it carries significant business risk. That is even if the applicant doesn’t have such plans in mind.
Harassment In The Workplace
Incidents of harassment are still a very real threat to working women. According to international labor statistics, anywhere between 25% and 85% of women have reported being sexually harassed at work. Many of these cases go unreported mainly due to perpetrators being in higher positions. Victims often fear how such actions can affect their careers.
However, harassment can also occur in a non-sexual way. That can include aggression from colleagues and can create an unhealthy work environment. Racism-induced harassment is a particularly nasty form that can produce a significant divide within the workplace.
Your Role In Creating A More Gender Equal And Inclusive Workplace
As cliché as it might seem, the power to create a more gender-equal and inclusive workplace lies first in you, the business owner. As such, you should be ready to deal with these challenges and resolve them for your female employees.
Bridging The Pay Gap For Gender Equality
Arguably the first thing you have to respond to is the pay inequality. While at its core, there is more to the matter than just setting equal rates for female employees. You should also turn it into a major aspect of your business operations.
For that, you need to build a strong case for gender pay equality. Both employees and stakeholders need to understand why such an approach will be better for the business. Emphasize how well-paid women employees will contribute to the company.
You should also be ready to challenge the misconceptions surrounding the pay gap. -This includes the notion that women can/t perform certain roles adequately. By dispelling these myths, you bring everyone together into a new mindset.
Concurrently, you also want to open the path to bigger career opportunities for your female employees. Encourage them to seek out these opportunities for their benefit by making them accessible. You should also be proactive in removing the gender biases in your recruitment process. Review every detail, including the language you use in recruitment materials to ensure that everything is inclusive.
Making A Safe Work Environment For All
Dealing with gender-related conflicts and sexual harassment cases begins with creating a secure workplace for everyone. Make sure that you have rules and regulations regarding employee conduct and relationships. You also want to ensure these regulations are implemented strictly in all departments and levels.
Meanwhile, you should be ready to respond to cases of harassment. Ensure impartiality in handling such cases so you can provide a satisfactory resolution. You also need to get experts to resolve such cases more effectively.
Lastly, it is always helpful to create a gender sensitivity board that will oversee the matter. The board will comprise representatives from the different departments and outside experts. They will advise you on the topic and ensure your business policies are gender positive.
Be On The Road Towards Gender Equality In The Workplace
The road to gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace is not a short one. But to show your female employees how much they mean to you, you should be ready to take the first step. Do that and you also move your business forward.