My First Working Day
I entered the room full of people. Mostly women. They welcomed me. They told me to prove myself as soon as I could. They said that once I became a mother, this would not be possible.
This first bias attached itself deeply inside me for the next 5 years, when I believed that everything they told me was true. Unfortunately, my environment did not speak in opposition to that. No female role models, women working only part-time. This was my reality. I worked possibly twice as hard as everyone else in my team to prove myself. Year after year, I hoped to get a promotion. I ended up with top performance notes year after year without a real promotion—the one that would make a change.
I cannot blame them, though.
What do we usually do when things do not go the way we imagined? We struggle, we become frustrated, and we try even harder. Well, let me tell you, for me, it certainly did not work. What worked was removing myself from this situation.
Women have a greater tendency compared to men to stay in environments that are not suitable for them. Why is this generally true?
It is simple—because of a lack of self-worth.
I often see posts on self-worth and respect on International Women's Day. But let me tell you—every day is International Women's Day. You deserve everything you want every day of the year.
The Reality of Gender Bias in the Workplace
The challenges I faced in my early career are not unique. They reflect a broader issue that many women encounter in professional settings. According to a study by McKinsey & Company, women are often hired and promoted at lower rates than men, even when they perform at the same or higher levels. The infamous "broken rung" at the first step up to management is one of the most significant barriers women face.
Research by Lean In and McKinsey has found that for every 100 men promoted to management, only 87 women receive the same opportunity. For women of color, the number drops even further to 82. This disparity sets a precedent that echoes throughout a woman’s career, limiting leadership opportunities and widening the gender gap at the executive level.
Additionally, unconscious bias plays a significant role in how women are perceived at work. Studies have shown that men are often judged based on their potential, while women are judged based on their past performance. This leads to a slower career progression for women, even when they have demonstrated equal or greater competence than their male counterparts.
Why Do Women Stay in Unfavorable Work Environments?
One of the biggest issues is that women are more likely to remain in toxic or non-progressive work environments than men. According to Harvard Business Review, women are 1.5 times more likely than men to say they stay in a job despite being unhappy due to feelings of loyalty, fear of being perceived as weak, or the belief that things will eventually improve.
Societal expectations and workplace culture also contribute to this trend. Women are often taught to be grateful for opportunities rather than demanding what they deserve. The fear of being labeled as "difficult" or "aggressive" discourages many women from advocating for themselves in salary negotiations and career advancements.
This mindset, combined with a lack of self-worth, leads to a vicious cycle where talented, hardworking women remain in roles that do not recognize their full potential.
Be the Change You Want To See
So, what is the solution?
- Pursue that career, even if everyone is telling you not to do it. If you have a dream job, go for it. Do not let outdated gender biases determine your future.
- Be the leader you want to see. Women in leadership positions can create more inclusive workplaces, advocate for fair policies, and mentor younger women.
- Support other women. One of the best ways to break the cycle is to uplift and empower other women in your workplace. Advocate for their promotions, acknowledge their work, and stand together.
- Speak up and stand for yourself. If you do not advocate for yourself, who else will? Ask for that raise, push for that promotion, and demand the respect you deserve.
The numbers won’t change unless we actively work towards changing them. Progress starts with every woman who dares to challenge the norm.
International Women's Day: A Reminder, Not a One-Day Celebration
Every year, on 8 March, International Women's Day reminds us of the progress made and the work still left to do. While this day is crucial for raising awareness, the fight for gender equality must be ongoing.
Companies must take real action, not just post about diversity and inclusion. Mentorship programs, transparent promotion structures, and addressing unconscious bias are some ways organizations can create lasting change.
For every woman reading this: You deserve equal opportunities, fair treatment, and respect—today, tomorrow, and every single day of the year.
Be the change you want to see. Stand out. Speak up. And together, we will shift the numbers in our favor.
