Tips and Resources for Women in the Workplace

Although we like to think that women are equals in the modern workplace, reality suggests otherwise. Despite all our progress, women are less likely than their male counterparts to get raises, win promotions, and be recognized for their work. There are a ton of reasons for this, from perceived ability to resume gaps and more.

Flex HR knows how important it is for employers to value their female workforce. The work to fight gender bias in the workplace has to come from both sides. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your work gets recognized and help your career soar:

What Contributes to Workplace Gender Bias?

The answers are far from simple.

 

• There are a number of causes for gender discrepancies in the workplace.
• For example, many women suffer from resume gaps due to time off for parenting or other family care responsibilities.
• Women are also less likely to negotiate for higher pay or demand a raise.

 

Avoiding Resume Gaps

Caregiving isn’t a given, or a dealbreaker.

 

• If you’re planning to have a child, have a frank conversation with your partner about parental leave. Don’t let it be a given that you’ll be the one taking the longer break.
• Many women want that break to care for their children or must take time off to care for a sick or injured loved one. You can keep your resume fresh during these breaks through freelance work.
• Skilled volunteering is another way to stay up-to-date on your resume, not to mention demonstrate your interest in the world around you.

 

Habits That May Hold You Back

Women are socialized into a lot of habits that aren’t effective in the workplace.

 

• Many women tend to over apologize – learn to stand behind your decisions and only apologize when you’ve actually made a mistake.
• Avoid letting perfectionism keep you from completing tasks or making you think you’ve never done enough.
• Practice owning your accomplishments. If you’ve done a good job, you deserve to be recognized (and paid accordingly!).

 

Recognizing and Addressing Discrimination

Sometimes gender discrimination is explicit, intentional, or even malicious. Here’s how to spot it, and what to do:

 

• This article takes you through subtle red flags of workplace discrimination.
• Start by working with your company’s HR department to get the issue addressed and fixed.
• If that doesn’t work, a lawyer can help you find justice. Remember: You deserve better than discriminatory practices.

We hope these resources help you feel empowered and confident in the workplace. Gender bias is real, but it’s not insurmountable. Working hard and making your mark in the industry can be a powerful way to contribute to long-term societal change. Your fight today will make it easier for the women of tomorrow to shine.

 

Guest article provided by: Gloria Martinez of womenled.org

Photo Credit: Pexels