Empowering Women Leaders in the Post-Pandemic Work Force
Originally published by Jamillah Moore Ed.D. for Psychology Today
According to the National Women’s Law Center, it is estimated that 5.3 million women in the United States alone lost their jobs during the pandemic. While men have returned to their pre-pandemic labor force size, more than 1.1 million fewer women are in the labor force today than in February of 2020. Getting more women back into the workforce after COVID-19 is crucial for economic and societal progress, but women are still struggling to get there.
In today’s dynamic business landscape, gender diversity in leadership roles is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage. Here are some strategies businesses should implement in visualizing the pathway to help more women recover from the impact of the pandemic and return to the workforce.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Encourage flexible schedules and remote work options to accommodate the balance of caregiving responsibilities. Consider this for all employees so a culture isn’t cultivated where only mothers or caregivers are exercising flexible schedules, but everyone is for a more balanced approach to their personal and professional spheres.
Reskilling and Upskilling: Invest in training programs to help women acquire new skills and remain competitive in the job market.
Mentorship and Networking: Promote mentorship programs and networks that connect women with experienced leaders.