According to a pan IIM survey on Women in workplace held by The star in me which is global career advancement platform for women, about 49 per cent women from the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) said they do not feel they have equal opportunities for career growth as the men in their organisations. More than 65 per cent of the respondents said women representation in their organisations’ top leadership tier is insignificant and they need more role models to look up to. Over 60 per cent said their organisations provide a flexible work environment and invest in up skilling.
The survey was done online among 400 alumni and current students from 20 IIMs across the country. The survey results demonstrate that even though progress has been made in enhancing gender diversity, organisations need a renewed focus on eliminating unconscious bias, strengthening mentoring and sponsorship initiatives and create a level playing field for women.
When the women were asked about the problems they faced at work, they said there is always a lack of mentorship, lack of strong professional networks, gender discrimination and unconscious bias as the key concerns. Interestingly, while women agree that strong professional networks are essential for success, 71 per cent said they take a passive approach towards building a network
The respondents took time to share suggestions on how organisations can help women scale their careers and the key recommendations included flexibility at work, leadership commitment to diversity, offering a level playing field to women, sensitising male colleagues, formal mentoring, sponsorship and networking initiatives and smoothing re-entry for women post a career break, it added.
