Will you Embrace Equity in 2023?

As we approach International Women's Day, it is important to reflect on the progress we have made towards achieving gender equity, but also to recognise the ongoing challenges that women face in the workplace. One of these challenges is the need for greater inclusion and belonging in the workplace, which is important not only for the wellbeing of individual employees but also for the success of the companies they work for.

According to Deloitte, employees who feel a sense of belonging are 56% more likely to perform their jobs at a high level, and are 50% less likely to leave their jobs. Reinforcing the importance of belonging in the workplace, Randstad’s latest data recently revealed that 50% of women would leave a job where they didn’t feel like they belonged. The Deloitte findings also demonstrate that companies that prioritise belonging can see a 167% increase in their net promoter score and a 75% decrease in sick days taken by their employees.

All of this highlights the importance of creating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and understanding this is essential for attracting and retaining top talent, particularly younger workers.

Our 2023 Randstad Workmonitor report shows that while there are no significant differences in the importance of work-life balance, female workers place a slightly higher importance on flexibility in terms of location than male workers. However, a lower percentage of female employees received a pay rise or bonus in the last six months, compared to male employees. 

Additionally, more female workers feel that their financial position is preventing them from retiring early. These findings highlight the need for greater gender equality in the workplace, particularly in terms of remuneration and financial security.

Furthermore, a higher percentage of female workers have taken on or are looking to take on a second job to help with rising costs of living. This points to the need for greater support and opportunities for women to advance their careers and earn a liveable wage.

Our upcoming webinar on 16 March features Mandy Hickson, a former RAF officer, who will discuss how she overcame inequities in a male-dominated environment to become one of the first female fighter pilots, going to war in active zones.

During the webinar, she will share insights on her military career, decision-making, leadership, motivation, and the importance and benefits of inclusion in today's workforce. We hope you can join us for what promises to be an informative and engaging discussion. Register here.

Later this month, our own CEO, Victoria Short, will be a top note speaker at  LinkedIn Forward, an exclusive event that brings together thought leaders and executives, and members of the EMEA staffing community to discuss current and future workforce trends. 

Alongside Christine Armstrong, communications and management expert, Victoria will discuss Randstad's own flexible working model, the challenges and successes we have experienced, and how other companies can create a flexible working environment that better suits their employees. Stay tuned for a round up in our next World of Work LinkedIn Newsletter.

So, on International Women's Day, let’s embrace equity and commit to promoting a workplace that is fair, inclusive, and supportive for all. 

Let’s celebrate the progress we have made towards achieving gender equity, while recognising the work that still needs to be done. Creating a culture of inclusion and belonging is essential for attracting and retaining top talent and for promoting a positive and productive work environment.

Together, we can create a better, more equitable future for women in the workplace.

Happy International Women's Day for Wednesday! #EmbraceEquity