Workplace Bias: 42% of Indian Women Affected, shows study

Have you ever faced bias at work as a woman? If so, you're not alone.

According to the '2024 Voice of Women Study India' by global professional services firm Aon, as many as 42% of Indian women in corporate jobs feel they face bias or potential bias at work.

This extensive study, which gathered inputs from nearly 24,000 professional women across over 560 companies in India, also reveals that over 37% of women have experienced insensitive behaviour and adds that this isn't just about a few isolated incidents; it's a widespread issue affecting women at all levels.

Despite these challenges, over 90% of women are prepared to put in extra time, volunteer for challenging projects, and upskill themselves to grow in their careers.

Another aspect that this study covers are the challenges faced by working mothers. Over 75% reported experiencing a setback of 1-2 years after maternity leave, with almost 40% claiming that going on maternity leave had a negative impact on their pay and role.

That's not all, the bias actually intensifies as women climb the corporate ladder. 34% of respondents in senior management and leadership roles indicated facing discrimination, compared to 17% in entry-level roles.

This stark contrast highlights a troubling trend: the higher women rise, the more bias they encounter.

The impact of this bias is profound. Among women who faced this kind of bias, 21% left their organization in less than a year.

The study also found that 53% of women who have visible female leaders in their organization feel confident in their career growth. Additionally, 52% believe it positively impacts their workplace culture, and 41% see these women leaders as role models.

It's time for businesses to step up, create inclusive policies, and ensure equitable opportunities for all.

Only then can we build workplaces where every woman feels valued and empowered.

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