A workplace culture that supports women empowers them to reach their full potential.
According to the World Economic Forum, women are at risk of being much more negatively impacted by AI disruptions in the workplace, as they are underrepresented in AI-related roles and overrepresented in professions most at risk. This is in a similar way that women are still trying to recover from the myriad of ways that the pandemic also negatively affected them significantly more than men. Thankfully, organizations can take steps to reduce negative consequences, address unconscious bias, and provide training that promotes gender equality.
To support female employees, it is crucial to provide them with equal opportunities for growth and advancement. This means ensuring that women have access to leadership roles, development programs, and training opportunities that will help them advance in their careers. Organizations should also note opportunities to provide women with training in specific areas around AI to bridge any gaps. Additionally, opportunities for development shouldn't be limited to those who work the longest hours – traditionally a more male-dominated demographic – but rather all employees who are seeking to grow and develop within the organization.
Mentorship and sponsorship programs are powerful tools for developing and supporting employees in the workplace. Pairing female employees with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and career advice can help them navigate challenges and achieve their professional goals. Plus, it helps employees to see people from similar demographics who have achieved the professional levels they’re hoping to get to. If you don’t have enough existing female leadership, consider helping women connect with others who may be outside your organization through networking groups or other connections.
One effective way to identify development opportunities for women in the workplace is by utilizing 360 feedback assessments. These assessments gather feedback from peers, managers, direct reports and sometimes others such as clients to provide a comprehensive view of an individual's strengths and areas for improvement. By analyzing the feedback from multiple sources, organizations can tailor development plans to help women enhance their skills, address any weaknesses, and continue to grow professionally.
Over 2 million women left the workforce in 2020 when the pressures of school and nursing home closures made juggling work and home demands feel impossible for many. Providing flexible work arrangements, such as the ability to work remotely or work outside of normal business hours, might help make work more accessible to women. Yet while hybrid workplaces are often seen as more accommodating for working mothers, it’s important for organizations to be mindful about which demographics might be working remotely more often, and whether there are any significant differences between those who work remotely and those who work onsite. Employee surveys are useful tools to solicit information and then analyze the data based on different demographics.
Want to learn more about using employee surveys or 360-degree feedback assessments to help support women in your organization? Contact us today to set up a call.