Workplace wellbeing: how to ensure women can thrive at every stage

Fania Stoney

Business Development Strategist, Great Place to Work

Rachel McLoughlin

Marketing Coordinator, Great Place to Work

Great workplaces are those that cater to the wellbeing of all, including addressing women’s needs — but how can organisations ensure they are doing so?

The nature of work and workplaces is constantly evolving. During this time of unprecedented change, we, at Great Place To Work, are examining how organisations are creating a Great Place to Work For All™ by focusing on adopting consistently high-trust workplace cultures.

Each year, we also recognise the Best Workplaces for Women in Ireland; these top organisations provide a great work environment For All™ employees but are also creating positive and supportive workplaces for women in particular.

Supporting across lifecycles

Understanding and accommodating the unique circumstances and different stages of life is what differentiates the best organisations. About 82% of employees at the Best Workplaces for Women this year agreed that their employer offers ‘a psychologically and emotionally healthy place to work,’ contrasting with just 39% agreeing with this among average organisations.

There is a gap that needs to be addressed with regard to women’s psychological wellbeing in the workplace. Now, more than ever, organisations are obligated to be well-equipped to support women however they need.

Most recently, we have seen organisations doing pioneering work to support menopausal and perimenopausal women at work. They are opening up the conversation, introducing menopause policies, providing training and making adjustments to support women in continually contributing their talents and developing personally and professionally.

There is a gap that needs to be addressed with regard to women’s psychological wellbeing in the workplace.

Clarity in career progression

Among the Best Workplaces for Women, 83% of employees agree that they are offered training or development to further themselves professionally. At average organisations, this number stands at just 47%.

This gap showcases a direct correlation between a high-trust workplace culture and learning and development opportunities, particularly for women. By making these opportunities more readily available, organisations can empower women to break down barriers and equip them with the skills and confidence needed to advance in their careers.

Work-life balance

Providing a great work environment for all employees means advocating for a healthy work-life balance for everyone. Again, this is made clear when looking at the data; for employees at the Best Workplaces for Women, 84% feel encouraged to balance their work and personal life, versus just 45% in average organisations. By enabling women to manage their professional and personal lives more effectively, organisations can help empower them to break free from the constraints of societal expectations that have, for too long, defined their roles primarily as caregivers.