Empowered Women in Trades’ Hacia Atherton shares her ideas on the best ways to promote a company culture that supports gender diversity.
By Hacia Atherton, chief executive officer and founder, Empowered Women in Trades.
Gender diversity in the workplace is a pressing issue that organisations need to tackle head-on. According to a 2019 report from McKinsey & Company, gender-diverse companies are 25 per cent more likely to outperform those that are not gender-diverse. In this article, we will explore how promoting gender diversity can benefit an organisation and how to develop a culture of inclusion in the workplace.
Gender diversity refers to having a balanced representation of men and women in the workplace. It means creating an environment where people of all genders are valued and respected for their skills and talents. Promoting gender diversity is essential for creating a more equitable workplace where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.
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1. Developing a culture of inclusion:
To develop a culture of inclusion, companies need to implement inclusive policies and practices. This includes identifying and addressing any unconscious biases that may exist within the organisation. Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce is also crucial. Companies should strive to hire people from diverse backgrounds and encourage open communication and feedback.
2. Addressing bias and discrimination:
Providing training on unconscious bias can help employees recognise and address negative attitudes and beliefs they may have towards people of different genders. Implementing non-discrimination policies is also important. Companies should establish a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including sexual harassment. These measures can help create a safer and more welcoming workplace for all employees.
3. Providing equal opportunities and benefits:
Ensuring equal pay for equal work is a critical component of promoting gender diversity. Providing parental leave and flexible work arrangements can also help create a more inclusive work environment that supports employees at different stages of life. Organisations that prioritise creating a supportive and inclusive work environment are more likely to attract and retain top talent.
4. Measuring and monitoring progress:
To gauge the success of their efforts to promote gender diversity, organisations should set goals and benchmarks. Regularly assessing progress and making adjustments as needed is vital. Celebrating successes and recognising areas for improvement can also help maintain momentum and drive further progress.
Promoting gender diversity in the workplace is not only the right thing to do, but it’s also good for business. By developing a culture of inclusion, addressing bias and discrimination, providing equal opportunities and benefits, and measuring and monitoring progress, companies can create a more equitable workplace that benefits everyone.
By valuing diversity and striving for inclusion, organisations can unlock the full potential of their workforce and create a brighter future for all.