Are you truly an equal opportunities employer?
As we mark International Women's Day with the theme 'Accelerate Progress,' I reflect on my nearly decade-long tenure as a recruiter. I still continue to hear common reasons from women seeking job changes, often unrelated to their career goals. Drawing from both professional insights and personal experiences, I have decided to share some reflections on this matter.
While strides have been made towards inclusivity, lingering stereotypes and traditions can impede progress. During challenging times, such as global political turmoil or financial constraints, it's tempting to revert to familiar norms gone by.
Ever heard...
Hopefully it has been awhile! But have you ever cringed when someone defensively asserts, "I'm not racist/any *phobic, some of my closest friends are [insert skin colour/ethnicity/group]"? Recognising that while they may have diverse friendships, their attitudes towards certain groups may still be biased.
Well...sorry...but..
Similarly, referring to yourself an equal opportunities employer regarding women isn't enough. Merely stating, "We're an equal opportunities employer; nearly 45% of our employees are women," doesn't guarantee you're an equal opportunities employer. While the workforce may seem diverse, representation in senior roles, particularly at the C-level, often falls short.
The reasons for this disparity, also kicks up some 'defensive' responses:
But have the root causes been explored?
Stay healthy...
Some may have good answers to these questions and others I suspect would have a similar response akin to catching a child sneaking pudding before dinner! (just nonsense).
Asking these questions may reveal uncomfortable truths, and no-one likes feeling uncomfortable. So we often convince ourselves it's because of reasons out of our control.
However, unlike convincing a child about the benefits of a balanced diet, especially if they've experienced some adverse effects, addressing workplace inequalities isn't as straightforward.
Yes, but our workplace is fine..?
Creating an equal environment entails fostering respectful interactions, providing equitable opportunities, and ensuring inclusive facilities.
Conversations
Conversations among colleagues should be free from biased language or dismissive attitudes, regardless of gender. Examples of subtle biases, like:
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There are more, and just because women may not speak out against these, it doesn't mean these trivial remarks or behaviours stop the formation of an unappealing/toxic atmosphere for female colleagues.
What did she say!
Consider the disparity in how male and female employees are perceived. A woman's assertiveness or decision-making is more likely to be labelled negatively, or blamed on hormones! Whereas similar behaviour from a man is accepted or even praised.
However, should she people please as expected, then she'll rarely gets the recognition for leadership qualities. Unconscious biases perpetuate this double standard, hindering women's advancement.
It's what's on the inside...
Additionally, facilities should accommodate all employees. While STEM fields are becoming more diverse, some outdated facilities in traditionally male-dominated sectors can alienate female employees. Sometimes it's just expected that women adapt to unequal/inadequate facilities, after all they choose to become a "typical male dominant job role". This lack of investment in their well-being, undermines their contributions and adds to an unhealthy workplace environment.
Don't forget the babies!
Addressing pregnancy and childcare biases is essential. Despite progress, stigmas persist, affecting hiring decisions and career progression. Viewing working mothers or women of a 'reproductive age' as liabilities rather than assets is short-sighted; companies that support them can gain a competitive edge.
Baby or no baby, anyone can choose to leave a role after 9 months, the only difference there’s a high chance a mother is likely to return and you’ll want them too! Nothing keeps you tethered to working than children as I know they do not get cheaper with age!
Isn't it ironic...
Expecting female employees to handle anything a Mother typically does at home which would apply in a work environment. Things like administrative duties or emotional labour activities such as the birthday/congratulations/leaving cards, associated gifts, event organisation and unofficial tidying/cleaning, files, cupboards, fridges etc.
Assigning stereotypical tasks to women sustains unconscious inequality and undermines their professional contributions.
So are you an equal opportunities environment?
After reading this, do you consider your workplace truly equal or just unfortunately factually diverse?
Reflect on whether your workplace proactively embodies equal opportunities and acknowledges biases. Implementing inclusive policies fosters a more equitable environment for all. Challenge assumptions and strive for genuine equality—it's not just about hiring women but ensuring their full participation and advancement.
Happy International Women's Day!