Despite significant progress in recent years, gender bias and stereotypes continue to influence how society perceives women’s roles. These biases can affect opportunities, promotions, and the expectations placed on women.

Many women still bear a disproportionate responsibility for caregiving and household chores, which can create an imbalance between work and personal life. Conversely, those that don’t take on these tasks are judged as well.

Inadequate parental leave policies and lack of childcare options for working parents can make it challenging for families to balance their careers and family responsibilities. Women are far more likely to step back from their careers to shoulder this gap.

This perpetuates the life-long gender pay gap experienced by women generally. The gender pay gap persists, with women, on average, earning less than men for the same work. This disparity can also be attributed to multiple factors, including negotiation biases and occupational segregation.

Here are some practical tips to help women navigate some of these challenges:

1. Find a Champion: There may be individuals within organisations who actively advocate for gender equality, pushing for policies that support women’s advancement in the workplace, and challenging societal norms. Seek out these people out, and form communities and alliances. And then become advocates. This is a new age, and it’s time to work differently.

2. Find a mentor: In a similar fashion, find a mentor. Having role models and support systems is crucial for career growth.

3. Find a sponsor: Find someone who you admire, who is at a higher level an the organisation to you, to become your sponsor. You want someone who is willing to drop your name when an opportunity arises.

4. Create awareness: Being aware of gender equality issues is essential. This includes educating people about unconscious biases and the importance of diversity and inclusion. Create a curious discussion when people make assumptions or generalisations.

5. Educate yourself: Go to free online seminars, learn about finance, business, family support systems, whatever you want! There are so many free resources out there.

6. Inform Policy: Question outdated policies and guidelines. Policies can play a significant role in addressing gender disparities. Advocacy for policies such as Parental leave guidelines; Flexible working; Education and development guidelines; Child-friendly travel policies: revising travel policies to accommodate employees who need to bring their children can make a significant difference. Many women face challenges when traveling for work due to a lack of childcare options. Allowing for family-friendly travel arrangements can help them participate more fully in their careers.

7. Technology and Remote Work: Advancements in technology and the rise of remote work have the potential to create more flexible work arrangements that benefit women in managing their responsibilities.

8. Cultural Shift: Achieving gender equality requires a cultural shift in how society values and supports women’s contributions, both in the workplace and at home.

It’s essential to continue discussions and actions that promote gender equality and challenge archaic norms. Progress may be gradual, but with continued awareness, advocacy, and policy changes, we can work toward a fairer and more equitable future for all, regardless of gender.