As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's important to draw focus on the gender disparity within international careers and the steps we can take to bridge this gap. While women are advancing in leadership positions worldwide, the landscape of expatriate work still presents significant challenges.
According to a study by Mercer, only 14% of employees on international assignments are women, highlighting a clear disparity in gender representation. This inequality persists across industries and regions, highlighting an urgent need for change.
As a resut, low participation of women in the talent pool for overseas assignments can delay progress towards gender equality in leadership roles. It's not just a matter of equality; it's a strategic talent issue.
Why does this gap exist?
Unconscious Bias: During the selection process for a position abroad, unconscious biases often come into play, leading to misguided assumptions about a woman's willingness or ability to take on international roles.
Lack of Interest: Many women may not actively pursue expatriate positions due to various factors such as a lack of organizational role models, insufficient incentives from companies, or concerns about managing family responsibilities.
Insufficient Support: Women may face barriers such as managing multiple careers or family commitments while on assignment. The lack of practical support or flexible working arrangements further hinders their ability to thrive in international roles.
How can organizations support women's aspirations for international careers?
Challenge Assumptions: Leaders must recognize and address unconscious biases during the selection process. Do not assume that women are unwilling to pursue international careers due to family commitments.
Open Communication: Foster open dialogue with women about their career aspirations and provide opportunities for growth and development in international roles.
Provide Support while Empowering Women Executives: Expatriate families, both executives and partners, require comprehensive support systems. Beyond traditional relocation services, organizations must prioritize mental health support and provide resources to navigate the challenges of expat life. Executives and partners can benefit greatly from expert assistance, such as that offered by Interoots, to alleviate the pressure and ensure a smooth transition for all.
As we strive to address gender representation in corporations, it's vital to challenge these barriers and forge pathways for women to excel in expatriate careers. With adequate support and flexible work arrangements, women can pursue and thrive in international roles. Furthermore, as companies offer more adaptable work options, partners can also join expat wives while continuing their professional pursuits. As we celebrate International Women's Day and highlight gender-related themes, let's focus on removing barriers and empowering women to succeed in international careers. By fostering inclusivity and providing essential support, we can facilitate the way for a more diverse and fair expatriate workforce. Together, we can turn aspirations into achievements and build a future where gender parity is not just a goal but a reality for all!
Are you an expat or contemplating becoming one?
Reach out to Interoots to explore our programs. Allow us to assist you and your family in navigating successfully your expat adventure with confidence and empowerment, saving you valuable time and energy.
We also collaborate with companies, supporting them in achieving accelerated high-performance outcomes while boosting international assignments ROI.
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