A report by Hero Vired titled 'Women in Modern Workplaces in India' explored the challenges women face in the workplace, particularly regarding work-life balance, leadership opportunities, and barriers to skill development. The survey, which included responses from 200,000 women, revealed that 70 per cent of them view work-life balance as the primary obstacle in their career progression. This finding highlights the critical need for strategies to help women manage their professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
While acknowledging the persistent issues of limited advancement opportunities and pay gaps, the report also noted positive developments in diversity and inclusion. Specifically, 77 per cent of respondents observed an increase in women occupying leadership positions, attributing this progress to supportive leadership, gender-inclusive hiring practices, and diversity initiatives within organisations.
Additionally, 78 per cent of the women surveyed believed that female leadership promotes workplace diversity and inclusion, and 59 per cent felt that women today have equal opportunities with their male counterparts.
The report also addressed the difficulties women face when returning to work after a career break, such as staying up-to-date with technological changes, skill degradation, and finding suitable job opportunities. Furthermore, 55 per cent of respondents supported the idea of specialised upskilling programmes for women re-entering the workforce.
The survey found that 85 per cent of the respondents believe that upskilling can help women stay competitive in the workplace. Motivated by career advancement and growth opportunities, 65 per cent of women expressed a willingness to invest in upskilling and career development, though lack of time remains a significant barrier.
This finding underscores the critical need for strategies to address the balance between professional responsibilities and personal commitments in workplaces. Here are some practical steps women can take to manage work-life balance and advance in their careers:
1. Time For Self
Make time for self-care. Prioritising your health and well-being is crucial. This can include exercise, hobbies, or simply taking time to relax. Regularly scheduling 'me time' can help you recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
2. Ask For Help
Don't hesitate to seek support. Whether it's professional help, such as a mentor or coach, or personal support from family and friends, asking for help can alleviate stress. This network can provide guidance, share responsibilities, and offer emotional support.
3. Set Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. This could mean setting specific work hours and sticking to them, creating a dedicated workspace at home, or turning off work-related notifications after hours. Boundaries help ensure that work does not encroach on personal time.
4. Delegate At Work And Home
Delegate tasks both at work and at home. At work, delegate tasks to colleagues when possible, and at home, share responsibilities with family members. Effective delegation can help manage workloads and reduce the pressure of juggling multiple responsibilities.