Workplace culture includes the beliefs, attitudes, practices, norms and customs ('how things are done around here') that characterize a workplace. They can be both obvious and implied.

For example, a workplace might be characterized by frequent overtime, often unplanned. Rewards are tied to working long hours, additional pay, promotions or being seen as 'part of the team', etc. Although these cultural characteristics might appear to affect men and women equally, they will typically have a different impact on women who could be less able to work late hours due to additional family responsibilities, safety concerns, etc. And these observable and apparently gender-neutral aspects of the workplace culture could reflect underlying attitudes or myths in the organization, such as working late is an individual choice, or, women just do not want to do this kind of work.

 

A workplace culture that is inclusive of women, and that will attract and retain those with the skills and talents to help the organization succeed, is characterized by:

• Cultural norms and values that support positive relations between men and women;
• A freedom from stereotyping about women"s and men"s roles and occupations;
• Conditions (work schedules, job titles, physical environment) that are inclusive of both men and women;
• A strong 'critical mass' of women, usually 30 per cent or more throughout the organization;
• Opportunities for advancement;
• An emphasis on reducing sources of unnecessary stress such as harassment and work-family conflict.

 

Workplaces that Work for Women...also Work for Men and Employers