Creating an inclusive and equitable workplace is a pressing need for all industries. But achieving gender equity requires intentional actions for short and long-term impact. By implementing these five attitudes, companies can increase significantly their results from day one, fostering an equitable culture, and supporting the growth of women in business.
1. Achieve Equal Pay
Ensuring equal pay for all is fundamental to achieving an equitable workplace. Organizations must take a proactive stance in regulating and monitoring pay gaps among their employees. One of the best ways to get this done is by conducting regular pay audits and addressing discrepancies. At the same time, it’s important to create a fair compensation structure that recognizes and rewards talent irrespective of gender.
2. Clear Leadership Paths
Transparency and clarity regarding leadership paths are essential to move toward gender equity. Clearly defined career progression opportunities ensure that current and new employees understand the steps required to advance within the company.
With mentorship and coaching programs, companies can actively support women in their professional careers. Furthermore, implementing leadership policies encouraging diversity and inclusion at all levels contributes to a more balanced workforce.
3. Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements
Women are still responsible for over 65% of housework in different-sex relationships. Companies must recognize the importance of work-life balance and how it affects women and members of other minority groups. By doing so, companies can better respect their needs and provide options — such as remote work, flexible hours, or compressed work weeks.
By embracing flexibility, companies can attract and retain talented professionals and create an inclusive environment that values all employees’ unique contributions and perspectives.
4. Address Gender Bias
Confronting and dismantling gender bias is vital for achieving gender equity in the workplace. Organizations should invest in comprehensive gender bias training programs to encourage employees to challenge their biases and foster an inclusive culture.
By raising awareness of unconscious biases, companies empower individuals to make conscious decisions, promote fairness, and create safe and respectful environments. Through training initiatives, organizations can foster a culture of equality and ensure that gender biases do not hinder the growth and advancement of women in business.
“We are still so far below the 50% mark, that I think specific support is still warranted. I look forward to the day where nobody calls me a ’female CEO’, and I’m just a CEO.”
— Melody Adhami, Co-Founder, FH Health & Pollin Fertility
LISTEN TO OUR FULL PODCAST INTERVIEW WITH MELODY ADHAMI HERE.
5. Foster Inclusive Initiatives
Mentorship and sponsorship programs are crucial in helping women develop their leadership skills. They can provide opportunities for networking, learning, and career guidance. Thus, ensuring that aspiring women have access to support systems.
By actively engaging in mentorship and sponsorship programs, organizations demonstrate their commitment nurturing talents. With these initiatives, women can gain valuable insights, build confidence, and navigate their career paths with guidance from experienced professionals, ultimately contributing to a more equitable workspace.
Promoting gender equity and creating opportunities to women in business requires a collective effort from organizations. Companies can create inclusive and equitable workplaces with small attitudes that grow into a greater impact.
One of the most critical aspects of making that change is regularly evaluating and measuring these initiatives to ensure ongoing improvement and accountability, leading to a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Learn more about how to take action and have an equitable workplace in our report published in collaboration with Randstad Canada. Click here to download.
