A survey conducted by Hays reveals significant insights ahead of International Women’s Day, emphasizing the business advantages of gender equality.
- Among over 4,500 participants, 38% identified gender bias as a key barrier to women’s inclusion in the workplace.
- Separate findings show 44% believe that gender equality directly contributes to company growth.
- Barriers such as inflexible work conditions and unequal pay were also highlighted.
- Progress continues, with Hays reporting improvements in gender balance among leadership roles.
Ahead of International Women’s Day, a revealing survey by Hays explores the obstacles and benefits of gender equality within the workplace. Engaging over 4,500 professionals, it was found that gender bias and discrimination remain significant impediments, as identified by 38% of respondents. Equally concerning are inflexible work arrangements, noted by 26%, and unequal pay compensation, pointed out by 24%. A lack of mentorship and sponsorship opportunities for women was also noted by 13% of those surveyed.
A separate survey of 1,400 individuals provided insights into the positive outcomes of achieving gender balance in the workplace. A noteworthy 44% of respondents asserted that gender equality drives inclusive growth within organizations. Furthermore, 31% believe it enhances employee retention, while 18% view it as crucial for building a resilient business. The notion that gender balance boosts profitability was shared by 7% of the survey participants.
Bianca Stringuini, Global Head of DE&I at Hays, articulated the dual nature of challenges and opportunities in gender equity. She emphasized the need for recognizing and overcoming systemic barriers, from subtle biases to more overt forms of discrimination. Stringuini highlighted that achieving inclusive growth requires creating safe spaces for diverse talent, which not only supports ethical standards but also serves as a strategic business advantage.
Progress in addressing gender equality can be seen in initiatives like Hays’ commitment to the UN Global Compact and their efforts to improve the gender balance of their senior leadership. As of 2023, 44.3% of Hays’ top leaders are women, signaling significant progress towards their goal of 50% representation by 2030. Bianca Stringuini noted, “At Hays, we understand that committing to DEI is crucial for engagement and retention. A diverse workforce ensures a diversity of thought, fostering creativity and innovation.”
The survey underscores the critical role of gender equality in fostering business growth and the ongoing effort required to overcome existing barriers.
