perception changes everything
Watch this short TEDTalk by Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook as she talks about unconscious gender bias in the workplace and how our own perceptions keep us and others from succeeding.
What is 'the gender pay gap'?
This perception, along with prevailing cultural and societal norms have contributed to what is known as 'the gender pay gap'. Countless independent and government sponsored studies have yielded the same results - across all industries women are paid significantly less for doing the same job as their male counterparts with the same or similar qualifications.
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I'm not telling women to be like men. I'm telling us to evaluate what men and women do in the workforce and at home without the gender bias.-- Sheryl Sandberg
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In addition to the disparity in pay, there is a perception that some professions are more suited for men instead of women, regardless of previous education. The idea that women aren't capable of achieving success in a field has lead to overwhelmingly male-centric industries, most notably in science, technology, math and engineering (STEM).
Click here to read more about how stereotypes about the ability to succeed based solely on gender can discourage girls before they even have a chance to try.
Click here to read more about how stereotypes about the ability to succeed based solely on gender can discourage girls before they even have a chance to try.
here's how workforce education can level the playing field
Workforce Education Centers have a unique opportunity. Unlike higher education institutions, they have the unique ability to set hiring requirements for employers. Brooklyn Workforce Initiative, located in Brooklyn, NY, places all graduates at companies that have a minimum starting salary of $12 - $13, guaranteeing that all graduates are receiving equal pay for the same skill set.
In addition, Workforce Education Centers generally teach practical skills with the goal of meeting certification requirements in high demand fields. Teaching the right combination of practical and professional skills - including having leaders of all genders involved in presentations or curriculum creation - can better prepare women for a competitive workplace.
Finally, Workforce Education Centers generally work very closely with employers and can gain insight on what it takes to be successful within an organization. They also have the chance to create mentoring relationships within an organization to support women as they transition into the company.
In addition, Workforce Education Centers generally teach practical skills with the goal of meeting certification requirements in high demand fields. Teaching the right combination of practical and professional skills - including having leaders of all genders involved in presentations or curriculum creation - can better prepare women for a competitive workplace.
Finally, Workforce Education Centers generally work very closely with employers and can gain insight on what it takes to be successful within an organization. They also have the chance to create mentoring relationships within an organization to support women as they transition into the company.