How to achieve gender equality in the workplace

Gender equality is a goal, a dream, and perhaps a soon-to-be reality held by many working women throughout the decades. Ever since the induction of women into the workforce, they’ve had to endure lustful leers, annoying flirts and unmindful harassment of all sorts by their male counterparts, looking down upon their abilities and talents. Yet, gender equality is a goal that can be achieved neither by society nor by the individual; to induct true gender equality and meritocracy into the workplace is a task that must be undertaken by both working in unison.

There are a few actions that must be taken in order to achieve gender equality in the workplace, some by the boss, some by the women, and some by the male co-workers. This article will list them out in an exercise towards theoretical gender equality; to actually put them into practice is a scenario so ideal it belongs, perhaps, in the realm of dreams……or perhaps that of fable and fairytales. The chances of a civilized and efficient workplace are really that slim.

1)       By the Boss

Theoretically, bosses should be the biggest advocate of gender equality. By having a purely meritocratic and work-focused office, the boss would then gaze upon the most efficient and talented workforce he would probably have ever seen. Sadly, few managers are this dedicated to their companies or unprejudiced by gender; some, in fact, are themselves the root cause of gender inequality in the office.

There are a few things that the boss can do. Firstly, the easiest action to be undertaken is to set an example for his employees. Show common courtesy or rant at the coworkers as you will; the main point is to treat everyone equally, the only influencing factor being that of talent and merit. Do not judge your workers based on gender, race or beliefs; judge them based on their attitudes and output. By treating everyone equally (you can be nice to everyone or rant at everyone; it’s your choice. Change your treatment based on their workplace attitudes; if they’re lazy, shout at them, or if they’re efficient, praise them. The important point is to show the important point is their output. Wow that’s a mouthful.), you not only show that you view everyone equally based on merit, but also gives them a common bond, allowing for office conversation and better workplace relations.

Secondly, the boss should organize, if possible, occasions after work for the entire office to bond together. These events should be boisterous yet refined, and gender neutral. Drinking or dinner is an easy way to go, especially in a refined yet boisterous pub. It’s cheaper than a restaurant, and classier than a nightclub. This is not only useful for morale, but also helps the employees to bond together and view each other as teammates and comrades, rather than a potential romantic partner.

Lastly, the boss should discourage interoffice romance, as large as possible. Let it be known that whatever they do outside the office is their own business; but romance in the office will be dealt with strictly. Mean it. (Demotions or firing, it doesn’t matter. Just ensure that threats are followed with action).

This rule includes the bosses too.

2)      By the Women

Some may not know or realise this, but the women themselves can inevitably play a part in workplace sexual harassment. The things they do, their body language and the signs they give off can inadvertently attract unwanted attention, thus causing the cycle of harassment female workers hate so much.

There are a few things that women should pay attention to in the workplace, in order to promote equality.

Firstly, take a look at your dress and behaviour. Don’t act or dress too provocatively; men, being the self-confident alpha males they are, will take this as a sign of your favour and will act accordingly. Dress fashionably if you insist, but keep the neckline high and the hemline low; professional office wear need not be drab with the right colours and accessories, and is definitely not provocative. Check yourself for any subtle nuances, especially if you really DO find a co-worker attractive; keep a poker face and don’t reveal anything during office hours. After that, act if you want to; but remember to keep your professionalism during work time.

Secondly, don’t expect chivalry too often. Women might be used to chivalristic knight-in-shining-armour-type actions during usual hours, but you’ve now entered the twilight zone of the workplace; if you want to be treated equally (and if you’re working, I’d expect that you do), don’t expect to be treated better. Open doors yourself. Don’t ask for help too often when unneeded. You’re working now; act like an employee/employer, and not a damsel in distress. (Unless your intention is to be the office flirt; then, by all means, go ahead)

Lastly, although this might bring you out of your comfort zone, mingle about. Avoid the co-workers you’re uncomfortable with, by all means, but don’t stick solely with female co-workers; an all-female group attracts more attention, wanted or unwanted. Mingle around with a few other girlfriends and male co-workers you find yourself comfortable with; a group interspersed with male and female co-workers is a healthier, happier and less-harassed group overall.

3)      Others

Frankly, besides these two, there aren’t many things that other factions are likely to do. The men could check their behaviour once in a while, for example; but aren’t likely to, or gender equality would’ve been an accomplished dream already. Society as a whole should stop passing legislation regulating sexual harassment, and set about actually enforcing these legislation. The general public and media could draw more attention to this controversy, and start realizing the difference between their personal and professional lives. These are all steps that can be undertaken by other factions by and besides those involved in the office politics; but by a combination of ignorance, selfishness and disinterest, have not and will not be likely to be undertaken.