In a recent episode of #HRTechChat, host Jennifer Dole and guest Pamela Stroko delved into the crucial topic of supporting women in the workplace and ensuring equitable promotions and opportunities. Pamela, an HCM practitioner and HR tech expert, provided valuable insights on the impact of HR technology in enabling women to access greater opportunities. Listen in as we will explore the key points discussed in the podcast episode and shed light on the importance of HR technology in empowering women in their careers.
The Shift in Women’s Careers:
Pamela highlighted the significant impact the pandemic had on women’s careers. Many women were forced to leave the workforce to fulfill caregiving responsibilities and support their families during challenging times. As a result, a staggering number of women, approximately 2.4 million, have not yet returned to work. Pamela emphasized the various factors that contribute to this trend, such as the lack of affordable childcare and the absence of job opportunities that provide the necessary support and flexibility for women.
The Power of Flexibility and Autonomy:
During the pandemic, remote work and flexible arrangements became the norm for many organizations. Employees, including women, experienced newfound autonomy and flexibility in managing their work and personal lives. This led to increased productivity and job satisfaction. However, Pamela expressed concern over the current shift towards calling employees back to the office, limiting remote work options, and reducing flexibility. This trend disregards the proven benefits of flexible work arrangements for women and threatens to undo the progress made in supporting their career growth.
The Role of HR Technology:
Pamela emphasized that HR technology can play a pivotal role in creating equitable opportunities for women in the workplace. She highlighted the concept of internal talent marketplaces, where skills-driven career planning and transparent job opportunities are made available to all employees. Various vendors, including Oracle, Gloat, and Phenom, offer solutions that facilitate the matching of skills and interests with available opportunities within an organization.
Transparency and Self-Driven Career Growth:
Internal talent marketplaces bring transparency to job opportunities, ensuring that employees are aware of potential roles and projects. Women, and all employees, can now actively raise their hands and express their interests and aspirations within the company. By becoming the architects of their own careers, individuals can explore various roles and gain valuable experience through short-term assignments and gigs. This experimentation and self-driven growth foster career mobility, becoming the new measure of success and growth.
Supporting Women’s Career Growth:
HR technology also facilitates coaching and mentoring connections, providing support and guidance for individuals seeking to advance their careers. It is crucial for companies to acknowledge and nurture the career aspirations of their employees, especially women. By embracing flexible work arrangements, recognizing individuals’ skills and potential, and offering opportunities for growth, companies can create an environment that empowers women to thrive.
Conclusion:
The conversation between Jennifer and Pamela sheds light on the importance of HR technology in supporting women’s career growth and creating equitable opportunities in the workplace. Through internal talent marketplaces, transparent job opportunities, and self-driven career growth, HR technology empowers women to explore their potential, gain experience, and actively contribute to their organizations. By embracing flexibility and recognizing the value of each individual, companies can create an inclusive environment where women can thrive and succeed. It is crucial for organizations to leverage HR technology to ensure that women are not only promoted equitably but also have access to fulfilling opportunities that align with their goals and aspirations.
