Women workforce demands inclusive environment, says The Office Pass 2024 Survey

• survey indicates women’s participation has increased after the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Greater flexibility and conducive policy changes can help companies develop inclusive workplaces, resulting in an increased number of women employees.

• Neighbourhood office locations and remote working preferred

Flexibility to work in a hybrid mode, provision of amenities related to daily needs, presence in a neighbourhood location, regular training and mentorship, opportunity to grow and an equal pay model make a workplace an inclusive one, according to The Office Pass (TOP) survey on Women’s Participation in Workplace in 2024.

Ranging from mid-level to senior-level executives and C-suite women leaders in various fields, the survey involved 500+ corporate participants. Women accounted for 88% of the survey participants. The survey discovered that there has been a surge in women’s participation in the workforce after the COVID-19 pandemic. While 57% of the respondents confirmed a rise in women participation, 38% of respondents say the percentage of women has remained the same.

Many companies have prioritized creating a supportive work environment, particularly for women, by implementing policy changes. It has resulted in an increase in the number of female employees and a more favourable workplace atmosphere.

The survey also asked for the top initiatives that would help attract more women to the workplace. Offering flexible schedules and hybrid work came as the top initiative opted by 69% of the respondents. In contrast, approximately 55 percent of respondents believe that providing ample amenities (daycare, feeding room, healthcare benefits etc.) within the workplace would encourage women’s participation. 19% respondents preferred neighbourhood offices.

Figure 1: What among the following amenities will increase women participation in the workforce?

Commenting on the findings of the survey Aditya Verma, Founder and CEO, The Office Pass (TOP) said, “Active women participation in the workplace is critical for the success of any organisation. Little work has been done in this direction. The survey conducted by TOP brings to the surface actionable intelligence that can guide organisations in this direction. We hope people will take note of the findings and take appropriate steps to boost women’s participation in the workplace”.

Organizations that have adopted a hybrid or fully remote operating model have achieved success in terms of organisational health and operational efficiency. Women are often found to be multitaskers. They continue to juggle between households and income generation for the family. Many have opted to be gig workers or entrepreneurs.

Moreover, the survey findings indicate that inclusion within corporate environments entails the ability of employees to align themselves with the core principles of the organization and connect with their colleagues. It also encompasses the perception that everyone has an equitable opportunity for advancement and a sense of security in voicing their opinions, suggestions, and work-related concerns.

Policy changes that would have a positive impact on increased participation by women were also discussed as part of the survey. Professional development & career enhancement were preferred by 62% of respondents followed closely by equal opportunity and pay parity (47%). Skill development initiatives came third with 43% of respondents opting for it.

Figure 2: What policy changes can aid increased participation by women?

During the survey conducted in 2023, respondents were asked to opt for multiple choices to depict the real demand for policies.