Inspire inclusion – What this year’s International Women’s Day is all about

Happy International Women’s Day!

This year’s theme, Inspire Inclusion, is one that employers can really get behind. We believe that inclusion is our best hope of achieving equality in the workplace.

When we look at our workplaces through a female lens, in some areas, it can seem like we’re moving backwards. Only last week, we learned that the gender pay gap has widened in the UK. British men are now earning 14.5% more than women, up from 14.3% the previous year.

Is home-working the answer?

A recent study shows a significant trend: Women are 26% more likely to apply for remote job opportunities. While remote work offers many benefits, a potential concern has emerged. 

Some worry that this shift to remote work could lead to fewer women being physically present in the workplace. This reduced presence could make it harder for the remote workforce to be considered for promotions.

As The proportion of women in the C-suite is still only 28% there’s much work to be done to create more workspaces that welcome women.

What does a female-friendly workplace look like?

As recruiters, we’ve noticed that employers are pushing back against demands for more flexible arrangements. At the same time, they’re making their workplaces more attractive.

Making your workplace inclusive means supporting every stage of a woman’s career and personal life, especially:

•  Pregnancy – Over 8 out of 10 women will be pregnant at some point in their career. A pregnancy-friendly workplace offers a range of support – from foot rests to more flexibility for potential morning sickness. Above all, its managers listening to their pregnant colleagues and avoid making assumptions about what they need.
• Childcare – The governments recent extension of free childcare hours is helping. But life for working parents remains challenging. It’s easy to overlook how much of a difference a supportive work environment makes. Creating a culture of equality and respect goes a long way to relieve the stresses of parenthood.
•   Menopause – 75% of women experience debilitating menopause symptoms. There’s now more than ever, a spotlight on menopause in the work place and it is the right thing to look at how we can support women during this time. Think about rest areas and variable workplace temperatures. Above all, act sensitively. For many women, the menopause remains a stigma – they may not want to draw attention to their symptoms.

Equality in the workplace can only be achieved when we all feel seen.That’s as true of women as it is of any group in society. Let’s all inspire inclusion and work together to eliminate the disadvantages that many of us still face.

For more on this topic:

• Designing workspaces that encourage diversity and inclusion.
• Diversity in Construction and Engineering.
• Workspace design for a hybrid working world.

To discover how Facilities Management companies are adapting to changing employee expectations and securing top talent. Our 2024 state of play report is available to the public now.