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Perceptions of women from Black and Minority Ethnic groups

Women from Black and Minority Ethnic groups are significantly more likely to recognise almost all of the barriers to women’s progression.  The lack of role models is a particular barrier as is the reality of balancing work and family and also the perception of a lack of commitment due to this.  Personal style also emerges as significant although BAME women are no more likely than their white colleagues to view stereotyping of their roles or aspirations as a barrier. 

“A lack of senior ethic managers also prevents equal opportunities and diversity” Female manager

“As an Asian female it’s the double whammy” Female manager

 

 

Perceptions of women working part time

Women working part time are more likely to recognise all of the barriers as their full time colleagues.  Particularly important, not surprisingly, is the perception that they are less committed due to family commitments and also the stereotyping of their aspirations for promotion.  This reflects the reluctance of many organisations to promote women working part time into more senior roles.  Interestingly, they are also significantly more likely to believe that mangers do not see women s advancement as their responsibility.

 Flexible hours and family responsibility are the most significant barriers I have experienced. As a highly qualified manager I am excluded from opportunities to progress on basis that the vast majority of positions at management level require full time hours.” Female manager

“Being Part time appears to stop you having any chance of promotion unless you go full time again therefore often woman's careers go on hold when they have a young family.” Female manager

“Many women are perfectly capable of progression and have the support, but they are not interested in advancement and are happy with the work life balance they have; it's not that they are constantly discriminated against. “ Male manager

 

 

Perceptions across the generations

Looking at respondents over and under 44 years old[1] it is striking how little difference there appears to in perceptions be across the age ranges.  Women in the younger age group appear to be slightly more sensitive to the perception that they are less committed to work due to family commitments but amongst the men there is almost no difference in perception.  This undermines the commonly held belief that a younger generation of men in the workplace are more sensitive to equality issues.