A new study from Vodafone shows that gender is still seen by a third of women as a barrier to career progression.
Over half (60%) of women consider the presence of other female leaders to be a key factor when deciding whether to apply for or accept a job, the research has revealed.
The study of 2,000 adults in the UK examined the barriers to career progression and the role of visible leadership in driving workplace culture.
It’s released as Vodafone UK announces its new Women in Leadership Apprenticeship Programme to help develop female leadership within the business.
Key findings include that over a third of women believe their gender is a barrier to career progression, with 60% saying that seeing other women in leadership influences their decision to apply for or accept a job.
And while a third of women believe they need to change jobs to progress, a lack of access to senior roles (40%) and training & development programmes (36%) cited as primary reasons preventing progression.
A lack of flexibility in schedules also prevents 36% of women dedicating time for learning and development.
The research highlights hidden barriers that continue to shape women’s career progression.
While men and women both reported having similar career ambitions, women felt more likely to be held back by lack of flexibility, workplace culture, responsibilities outside of work, and lack of dedicated training time.
These challenges make it harder for women to move up in their careers, delaying progress and limiting leadership opportunities.
Nicki Lyons, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Vodafone UK, commented: “Businesses can’t afford to lose out on top talent because women don’t see themselves reflected in leadership positions or have the time to invest in themselves.”
Lyons believes that women need senior role models “to help feel inspired and supported in their own career progression”, and Vodafone is committed to breaking down these barriers at every stage of working lives, through mentoring, leadership development, employee networks, dedicated learning, and workplace policies that empower women to thrive.
These commitments are backed by a target: 45% of senior management roles to be held by women by 2030.
The study’s findings reinforce the importance and the benefits for companies to embed diversity in their leadership strategies.
Comms Dealer is delighted to have launched a new event and community in our calendar – Aequitas – a new network to celebrate and recognise female leadership in the MSP and partner communities https://www.aequitas.network/