Women still find it a challenge to reach managerial and executive ranks, according to the findings of a recent survey conducted by Ipsos-Reid on behalf of Randstad Canada.
The obstacles
The survey of 500 female managers and executives found that 60% see managing work and family as the most challenging obstacle that women face, though outdated perceptions of women in managerial and executive roles (51%), limited opportunities in the Canadian market (50%) and a lack of female mentors and training (49%) remain difficult factors to overcome.
However, 91% said they do manage work and family well, and 43% feel it is easier to manage work and home obligations today than it was five years ago.
“What we’re seeing are some very positive signs for women who are striving to reach the managerial and executive levels of their organizations, but some very real challenges and obstacles that they are still facing,” says Gina Ibghy, vice-president, organizational development and HR, with Randstad Canada. “When it comes to excelling both at work and outside of it, women face unique challenges, including, unfortunately, outdated perceptions that make it difficult for women to move up the ranks.”
Compensation and opportunities gap
Canadian women in managerial and executive roles continue to see a very real divide in the way men and women are compensated and rewarded when reaching the senior ranks. According to polling, 77% felt there remained a moderate or large divide between the salaries women can expect for performing the same roles as men.
Ninety-two percent of women surveyed felt there was at least some discrepancy between men and women in terms of opportunities for promotions, while 70% felt men are more likely to be given the opportunity to make important decisions than women. Sixty-nine percent of those polled also felt that men more frequently receive the best jobs and projects when compared with women in similar roles.