Last updated: 17 Jul 2023 11:00 Posted in:
A new study from the BSI– formerly the British Standards Institute – has concluded that the drive towards a sustainable world economy is being hampered by women leaving the workforce early.
BSI’s ‘Lifting the Second Glass Ceiling’ report explores why women around the world are leaving the quitting early –not necessarily out of personal preference. It looks at the factors driving this trend and the outlines the potential benefits to individuals, organisations and society as a whole that can be realized if women are supported to remain in the workforce for longer.
The report found that 42% of working women globally agree that it is uncommon to see older women in positions of leadership. It said women leaving the workforce before they have the opportunity to reach senior positions contributes to significant productivity losses, robs organisations of talented people, and removes mentors who can draw on their experience to guide newer members of staff. It said the main reasons for this exodus were caring responsibilities, structural factors and because women felt they weren’t valued by their employer.
It said individuals, organisations and society all stand to gain from reversing this trend. “Ultimately, it is an opportunity to boost growth and innovation and accelerate progress towards a sustainable world,” it said.
It said looking at what is driving women to leave the workforce early can help an organisation uncover solutions that enable more women to thrive. It said: “Women can only access support around menopause or any other factor if it is first available and they are aware of what is on offer. Employers can partner with employees to embed a supportive culture.”
It added: “Small adjustments can make a big impact. Where possible, providing flexibility in how, when and where people work can greatly lessen the stress on those who might otherwise choose to leave the workforce.”
The BSI urged the sharing of best practice. It said: “As with lifting the original glass ceiling, collaboration between organisations and a willingness to share what strategies are working can help accelerate progress to a sustainable world.
“The aim of this report is to reframe the conversation around women in work. Rather than see the considerations facing this group as a challenge, we all stand to gain by lifting the Second Glass Ceiling and seeing this as an investment in current and future generations and a means to ensure diversity.
“Ultimately, it is an opportunity to boost growth, enhance innovation and accelerate progress towards a sustainable world.”
The BSI polled more than 5,000 women on four continents during its research.
“Small adjustments can make a big impact. Where possible, providing flexibility in how, when and where people work can greatly lessen the stress on those who might otherwise choose to leave the workforce.”
BSI’s ‘Lifting the Second Glass Ceiling’ Report.