A woman in any workplace, trudging along with a purse, is frequently assumed to be walking towards a regular desk and chair rather than the boardroom. The numbers don’t lie, as the battle to push statistics at the C-suite level continues, but organisations are gradually imbibing a more inclusive work culture across levels. These firms have taken cues from several studies that have documented the difficult path that most women must take not only to reach the top but also to remain within the workforce. In the recent past, businesses have radically adapted to strategically better work environments attracting skilled workforce, including women.
On 30 March, The Economic Times will felicitate the Best Organisations for Women that have taken significant steps to build an inclusive culture, setting the path for its peers. We’ve highlighted certain go-to trends that firms imbibed to create a more inclusive culture within their firm.
Technology sector sets the path for an inclusive future
Without a doubt, the trend for women in the workforce tends to favour those who are more tech-savvy or have a background in technology. In India, the ITES/BPO industry and computer software industries have been the largest recruiters of women workers, and it is clear that the majority of women workers are employed in the technology sector. Banking and related financial sectors that have adapted to the latest in technology appeared to have a higher proportion of women than other sectors. On the other end of the spectrum, we find companies with a low percentage of women in the workforce in the travel and tourism and healthcare sectors.
Laying out the welcome sign with hybrid work environments
If there is one thing we can take away from the job losses and skewed work schedules that women have experienced over the last two years, it is that flexibility in work timings and locations has prompted more women to join and remain in the workforce. According to a recent LinkedIn study, women were 26 percent more likely than men to choose jobs that allowed for remote work. The ability to choose their work location has given women the option to stay in the workforce, though some drawbacks include losing visibility or being passed over for C-level positions. Companies are actively working to overcome these obstacles.
Greater need to report gender-inclusive behaviour
How can companies encourage more women to work in their organisations? A direct way would be to demonstrate a more inclusive work culture and women’s confidence in reporting such behaviour, as well as having employers who support work-life balance.
Following the pandemic, certain businesses were able to quickly adopt technological trends, embracing flexible work models, and paving the way for a more inclusive future. These companies will be present at The Economic Times Best Organizations for Women summit on March 30 to share their success stories and future vision for organizations.
