What's gender got to do with it?
Is gender equality something that affects you and your career?
I worked in a primarily male workplace for decades. Initially in environmental compliance and permitting at a regulatory agency and then a law firm, before working at an integrated electric utility.
It was a career that served me well. I gained confidence and knowledge. I developed new skills. I discovered talents and interests I did not know I had. I had opportunities, some of which I had to work extremely hard to create for myself.
I also faced challenges, obstacles, and situations directly related to my gender.
Gender equity means valuing different behaviors, aspirations, and needs equally, regardless of gender. It is equal ease of access to resources and opportunities. As a woman in a primarily male workplace, gender was something I was well aware of; something I worked through and around.
A few of my own experiences stand out in my mind, as if they happened yesterday:
Being subject to comments of my male colleagues about how nice it must be to work “mothers’ hours” when, after an 8+ hour day, I rushed out the door at 5:02pm so that I could pick up my children at daycare before 5:30pm.
Having my manager suggest that I go to the nearby Chamber of Commerce or community hospital if I had to use a restroom while working at a field office that had a restroom equipped with a shower, toilet stall, and urinal but no lock on the door.
In some instances, I chose to deal directly with gender related challenges.
Other times, I chose to overlook them or find a work around.
Requesting a lock be installed on the restroom door at the field office was easy. Changing the behavior of some of my colleagues or the practices and culture of the organization was not.
Today, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, gender and gender equality are topics being discussed in every workplace. With employees working from home, the children of employees at home learning remotely, and limited access to daycare, there is a greater awareness of gender equity in the workplace as well at home.
This increased awareness is an important step in the creation of workplaces where all individuals are valued for their unique experiences and perspectives. Workplaces where individuals are valued and respected for who they are and what they bring to the table, regardless of gender.
Navigating gender related challenges in the workplace and bringing awareness to gender equality without jeopardizing your career is not easy.
If you need help navigating career challenges or simply want to discuss how I might be of service, let me know.
As always, I’m here for you!
