The Challenges of Working Women

• Posted In : 2021-Apr-30

My aunt was interviewing for a job. She was asked: ‘How are you going to manage your household and this job?’ My aunt answered: ‘Why wasn’t my husband asked the same thing?’

There is no doubt that women face many different challenges being in the workplace than men do. For many centuries, the patriarchy has declared men to be the sole ‘breadwinner’ of a family and women to be the caregivers of a house. Even though the number of women in the workforce has more than tripled since 1950, there are still women being disadvantaged in their workplace due to the patriarchal mindset that has been embedded into society.

Societal Judgement

In India, the rate of women at work has fallen by 12%. Many married women in India have faced harsh criticism from family members or employers for choosing to work. They have received comments such as ‘why do you need to earn money or ‘shouldn’t be focusing on your family. Such comments can prove to be a challenge to women that want to advance in their workplace.

But women, remember that what society thinks doesn’t matter. Do what makes you happy. It is your life and your choice to make. Don’t let what others think dictate you.

Gender Pay Gap

Perhaps the biggest challenge that women face in the workplace is the pay gap. In India, women are paid 34% less than men for doing the same job with the same qualifications. Around 4.1 million women have to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. Such a stark difference in salaries can discourage women from working or even moving forward in their careers. 

Confront your bosses. Ask them why you are being paid differently. Contact other women that have faced the same thing. Speak up. 

‘When women work together, it’s a bond unlike any other.’ - Victoria Principal.

Sexual Harassment

Around 6000 employees in India claimed that sexual harassment was prevalent in different job sectors, ranging from lewd comments to rape. Sexual harassment, whilst also affecting mental and physical health, can also derail women from working in male-dominated fields, such as STEM, and cause women to drop out of the workforce. Women should not have to go to work every day fearing for their health and safety.

Women, please speak up. You are not weak. You are a victim and you deserve to have your voice heard. The more women that speak up, the safer we can make the workplace for women.

Women face challenges in the workplace that are unlike any other. Whilst this might be tiring, women please remember to never give up. You are strong and you can overcome the constraints of patriarchy. The world is a better place when more women showcase their talents in the workplace.

‘Women need a seat at the table.’ - Meghan Markle.

Author : Meghala Srinath

Meghala Srinath loves writing about things that aspire her and spending time with friends and family.

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