Discrimination in the workplace occurs when one employee is treated differently than others for a variety of reasons. This could be due of their age, physical disability, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. Although the EEOC safeguards employees’ rights against discrimination, facing such instances at work can have a negative influence on their work performance.
Employees face workplace discrimination regardless of their gender, although it is especially prevalent against working mothers. This type of prejudice is frequently classed as sexual harassment or pregnancy discrimination.
Read on to learn how to spot workplace discrimination against working moms and what you can do to prevent it.
What discrimination against working moms can look like?
Here are some signs of discrimination against working moms in the workplace.
They are looked upon as unreliable
Working mothers are supposed to prioritize their family’s needs over their professional obligations. As a result of which, they are looked upon as unreliable individuals. Therefore, they are frequently excluded from participating in significant projects. Despite them being capable of handling the same.
They have to listen to sexist remarks
This issue may be particularly prevalent in pregnant women or working moms who return to work soon after giving birth. Because both of these periods can be taxing on women’s health, it is likely for them to take maternity leave. Although doing so does not have to have an impact on their work obligations, sexist remarks are nonetheless common.
They are perceived to have a lack of discipline
Working mothers are more likely than their coworkers to receive disciplinary warnings. This is because, in comparison to their coworkers, they are scrutinized more for minor work faults or arriving late for work. Although some disciplinary norms must be obeyed at work, working moms may be called upon to break them more frequently than others.
They are not considered for promotions or pay raises
Working mothers and pregnant women are often overlooked for promotions because they are perceived as unreliable. Despite having the necessary experience and knowledge, they are discriminated against and are not considered for annual promotions or raises. Furthermore, during this time in their lives, some employers may opt to fire them from their work.
They are likely to encounter changes in the bonuses and benefits offered
Working moms might see changes in the bonuses and benefits they receive. They may not be considered for other employment benefits in addition to being denied promotions and annual raises. These could be prizes given out during festivals or for completing a project.
What companies can do to support working moms?
As a Hiring Manager or an Employer, you have the power to implement policies and practices that do not penalize working mothers for their lifestyle choices. Furthermore, doing so will help reduce some of the strain on working mothers’ shoulders.
Here are a few things you can do to make the process go more smoothly for working moms.
- Try having open and honest discussions with working mothers. Pay attention to what they have to say about any time or work management challenges they may be experiencing. Depending on the magnitude of the situation, you will be able to reach an agreement.
- Define workplace rules that are stringent in their enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. Those faced by working mothers, in particular. This will not only keep you out of legal issues, but it will also help you create a comfortable workplace.
- Provide maternity leave and health insurance to assist pregnant women in covering some of their costs. Allowing them to take some time off during this period will also benefit their mental health.
- Offer flexible work hours whenever and wherever possible. Working moms will be able to find the correct work-life balance as a result of this. Given the ongoing pandemic, this will be very beneficial.
- Give all employees, especially working moms, equal opportunities during annual promotions and raises. Rather than writing working moms off for their life choices, evaluate them based on their job performance, knowledge, and skills.
- Conduct compliance surveys for the EEOC and OPCCP. This will help you in determining whether any of your employees are subjected to workplace discrimination. As a result, you will be able to provide equal job opportunities to all.
These tips will undoubtedly assist you in defending the rights of working mothers. Furthermore, implementing these changes will improve your employer brand.
To help achieve workplace balance, strive toward ensuring EEOC and OPCCP compliance. Create an EEOC complaint recruiting profile for free by registering with Jobsoid.
