Employment Law
Helping Women Thrive in Construction
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women make up nine percent of the construction industry, which indicates that there is much room for improvement. Attracting and hiring women in the industry will help to change stereotypes about the male-dominated profession, as well as promote safe and healthful working conditions and prevent hazards that are specific to women. In this short article, our Brandon construction attorneys will share three ways the construction industry can help women thrive.
Encourage Networking
Networking is not easy for most, but it is essential for career growth. It is crucial for women to connect with those they can benefit from professionally as well as those they can also assist in return. Networking allows women to establish new professional relationships, build confidence, gain fresh perspectives and ideas, and gain access to lucrative opportunities.
To get started, women should look into professional organizations, such as the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), at the local, state, and national levels for membership opportunities.
Encourage Mentorship
Over the years, women have faced barriers such as sexism, discrimination, and inequality when entering the construction field as well as when they seek to climb the career ladder. Finding support through mentorship can help lessen these challenges. Mentorship is a professional relationship with a more experienced person (the mentor) who can assist the less experienced person (the mentee) with developing specialized skills and knowledge to enhance the mentee’s professional career.
Women should first ask themselves what they want in a mentor. Is it someone that can help them with a specific challenge, or are they looking for someone to be a general sounding board over the long haul?
Encourage Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance can be a challenge in the construction industry. The industry is known for its labor shortage and long, odd hours, and women often find it difficult to maintain a healthy equilibrium. A lack of work-life balance increases work conflicts, job burnout, and health issues which can ultimately derail productivity in the workplace.
While work-life balance applies to men as well, women tend to carry the brunt of juggling expectations at work along with the demands of caring for young children or ailing parents. Technology can provide more opportunities for remote work or more flexible working hours. Not only will construction companies see an increase in loyalty and dedication from their staff, they will also see an increase in productivity and profits.
If you would like to speak with a Brandon construction lawyer, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.