Why is Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the workplace important? There is a persistent gender imbalance in the UK. Data shows that women make up just 38% of senior leadership, and face an enduring gender pay gap. Yet CMI’s research found that only 1 in 5 senior managers and leaders actively advocate women for key projects, roles or promotions.
Gender Equality is not enough
Gender equal opportunities are not enough to create a truly inclusive workplace. We need to go beyond providing individuals and groups with the same resources or opportunities and aim for gender equity-based solutions.
Gender equity recognises the intersectionality and diversity of gender. Through it, we can give out exact resources and opportunities based on different circumstances. This enables us to champion women in the workplace by fairly serving their individual and shared experiences. Not everyone starts the same, but they should all be empowered to reach an equal outcome with the right support.
At CMI, we have recognised the importance of equity for inclusive leadership by placing it at the heart of our Professional Standards.
The Workplace in Review: Gender
We need tangible actions to address the inequity and discrimination that prevent women from participating in the economy. What more can employers and managers do to create a more balanced workplace for all?
The key to inclusive leadership is to learn from lived experiences. In this episode, men and women across sectors share their perspectives on enabling fair and equitable opportunities at work.
44%
report action plans
in place where women are underrepresented in an organisation
21%
report balanced short-lists
are used in recruitment
What is the reality of Gender Equity?
CMI identified a say-do gap across UK workplaces. Whilst organisations may think and say that they are doing the right thing when it comes to inclusivity, the evidence suggests that women still have clear barriers to success in work.
- Women lack mentoring and sponsorship opportunities
- Women remain over-represented in insecure and low-paying roles
- Women face a clear gap in pay compared to men
- Organisations are complacent about acknowledging the imbalance
Explore our research for practical actions to empower gender equity in your organisation.
The Everyone Economy ReportLearn more about Gender Equity
60 entries found
Topic: Menopause
Change for the Better
The key aspects to be considered by organisations to best support their workforce through the menopause.
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Topic: Menopause
Menopause, and the workplace
How menopause friendly is your organisation? Understand what you can do to help and how.
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Topic: Mental Health and Wellbeing
How can business lead the way in supporting mid-life women?
Women in mid-life are managing work, menopause and caring responsibilities. Employers need to step up to meet their needs in
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Topic: Gender
The broken talent pipeline: what next for women over 50?
Find out how managers and leaders can best support women over 50 in their careers.
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Topic: Equality and Diversity
Inclusion – who exactly are we trying to include and why?
One CMI Companion wants to open up the conversation about some of the other, less explored facets of diversity and inclusion
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Topic: Equality and Diversity
Challenges and Celebrations
Learn more about how you can help create a more inclusive world by choosing to challenge.
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Topic: Gender
#ChooseToChallenge: Why, What and How?
Insights into the barriers to career progression for women and how you can #ChooseToChallenge.
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Topic: Gender
Women in leadership
Hear from modern business leaders and their professional experiences in today’s changing business landscape.
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