Employer Preferences and Gender Equality: World’s Most Attractive Employers 2023

While the findings of this report show that there are similarities among what male and female talent seek in an employer, there are also significant differences. With these differences, a question that still remains: When career priorities differ by gender, does it widen inequalities at work? According to Universum’s research, both men and women rank high future earnings as their #1 consideration for a new employer, but beyond that the differences begin to pile up – raising important takeaways for employers and the pursuit of gender equality in the workplace. 

Gender Differences in Career Priorities 

Universum’s research highlights significant variations in career priorities between men and women. While high future earnings top the list for both genders, women are more likely to seek out secure employment (#3), work-life balance (#5) and flexible work (#7) when compared to men. In contrast, men tend to value a competitive base salary (#2) and good references for future career opportunities (#4). These differences in priorities reflect diverse needs and aspirations, indicating that companies must adapt their recruitment strategies to accommodate them, and promote themselves as an employer that embraces these differences. 

The Impact on Women’s Career Advancement 

While understanding and addressing these differences in priorities are crucial, it is essential to explore how they might affect women’s career advancement, mentorship opportunities, and compensation. Research from Ziprecruiter reveals that women are twice as likely as men to seek remote work options, suggesting a strong desire for flexibility in their work arrangements. Surprisingly, a Deloitte study found that 97% of working professionals believe that requesting such flexibility could hinder their career advancement. This disconnect between what women desire and what they believe will impact their careers raises important questions about the potential and existing limitations placed on women’s career growth by their preference for work-life balance and flexibility. 

Balancing Career Choices 

Employers face the challenging task of accommodating employees’ diverse career priorities, particularly when it comes to work-life balance and flexibility. The balance between recognizing these needs and ensuring they do not create an environment that increases gender gaps in compensation and advancement is not a straightforward one. Questions arise, such as whether a person working 55-hour weeks deserves a promotion more than someone working 30 hours, or whether remote workers who don’t attend in-person meetings are perceived as less committed employees. The answers to these questions require a detailed approach, however there are strategies that can be implemented to ensure your organization fosters career-growth and advancement in an unbiased way. 

Strategies for Non-biased Career Advancement 

To navigate the complex landscape of gender differences in career priorities and ensure equitable career opportunities, employers should consider the following strategies: 

Mentorship and Development Opportunities: It is essential to ensure that employees who work remotely or seek flexibility have access to the same quality and quantity of mentorship, training, and development opportunities as their in-office colleagues. Proactively promoting mentorship programs that are available to all employees, regardless of their work location can be a great way to minimize these inequalities. 

Collaboration Technology: Investing in best-in-class technology for virtual meetings, intranet messaging, and project management is crucial to ensure that remote workers can connect with their teams at all times. This technology minimizes the feeling of isolation, and fosters a more collaborative work environment. 

In-Person Collaborations: Even in a remote work setting, creating opportunities for in-person collaboration can foster team cohesion and innovation. Companies can consider occasional face-to-face meetings, team-building events, or brainstorming sessions to facilitate interpersonal relationships and drive the vision and direction of projects. 

And much more! Interested in learning more strategies for minimizing gender inequalities in the workplace? Download the 2023 report of the World’s Most Attractive Employers to gain all the insights! 

Gender differences in career priorities are a reality in today’s workplace. Employers must recognize and adapt to these differences, but they must also consider how these priorities may impact career advancement and gender equality. The desire for work-life balance and flexibility should not hinder women’s career growth. To address these challenges, companies must develop gender-neutral strategies that provide equal opportunities for mentorship, use collaboration technology effectively, and facilitate in-person collaborations. 

As we move forward in the quest for workplace equality, acknowledging and accommodating these diverse career priorities is a critical step towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all employees. 

While this article provides a brief overview of the topic, the World’s Most Attractive Employers 2023 eBook provides an in depth look at this, with takeaways and other things to consider. Download your free copy of the eBook today! 

Are you curious about the World’s Most Attractive Employers, the findings in the report, or how your company can take advantage of the trends in the report and become an attractive employer? Contact us today to set up a meeting to discuss what these findings mean for you!