The role of men in gender equality in the workplace

Yes, the debate around gender equality is moving in the right direction; but significant factors continue to hold back real progress. One of the biggest challenges for women in the workplace is the shortage of female role models - whether at senior levels, in specific industries, or both. And yet, having a diverse team and building an inclusive work culture in your company makes the best business sense, as demonstrated by various research initiatives (including by the IMF, WEF, and other privately funded studies) which link diversity with improved economic performance. 

Growth that excludes large portions of the population reinforces inequality in a variety of ways – access to education, technology, resources and social connections that help individuals land jobs and remain relevant in the labour force. Diversity brings together more varied perspectives, produces a more well-rounded analysis of the issues at hand and spurs greater effort to improve decision making. 

According to PwC’s The Diversity Project report, organizations with greater gender diversity are 1.4 times more likely to have sustained, profitable growth. Additionally, the report states that firms who have diversity and inclusion as a business priority improve their reputation and brand. There is an abundance of research that suggests that a link between gender equality and better overall organization performance as gender diversity should be looked at as a solution, not a problem to solve.

Similarly, according to the WEF, empowering women means a more efficient use of a nation’s human talent as reducing gender inequality enhances productivity and economic growth. Over time, a nation’s competitiveness depends among other things on how it utilizes its female talent. If bridging the inequality gap boosts an organization’s profits, it is then up to the men in leadership positions to embrace these findings and act upon them. As men, we need to make a conscious effort to not allow our subconscious bias to dictate our decisions and instead make an effort to allow women the opportunity to share their knowledge and talents. If all men got on board with gender equality and see women as allies in the workplace we all win.  

The collective voice of women, speaking up about their experience in the workplace, has never been stronger. There is a new fearlessness and urgency to address the challenges women face. Through PwC’s partnership with UN Women’s HeForShe initiative, we are working towards achieving global gender equality in the workplace and beyond. HeForShe’s mission is to engage men as advocates of change for global gender equality. By building gender IQ to support HeForShe, we are driving awareness and action through our employees, clients and within our communities. The HeForShe solidarity movement for gender equality provides a systematic approach and targeted platform where a global audience can engage and become change agents for the achievement of gender equality in our lifetime. It is vital that there is two-way, open dialogue where women can initiate candid discussions centred on career aspirations and what’s needed to close the disconnect between ambition and achievement. By learning and understanding the issues surrounding gender equality, men can actively make a difference and support women.

We are simply rooting for balance, equality and fair play. Our collective efforts to raise awareness about diversity and inclusion will allow us to recognize that everyone wins. Gender equality is a global issue that impacts all of us. When we work together and support each other’s success, we inspire new potential in the people and opportunities around us. I encourage all men to get involved and take action by supporting global gender equality issues that matter to you.

By Jose-Luis Gonzalez, Advisory Services- Portfolio and Programme Management Consultant.