Sujendra GS, VP, Human Resources, Creative Synergies Group
“What counts as equity? In a workplace, do women have the same opportunities to rise up as men? Will giving them equal opportunities without considering their needs count as equity? Not in most cases. The first step to embracing equity comes from recognizing the fact that differences exist.
Post pandemic, as we slowly transition from remote work to hybrid work model, organizations need to uniquely support women – especially mothers and caregivers who are juggling multiple roles in their workday. Their outside obligations are different than some of their male co-workers and they need to be given the flexibility and support to get their work accomplished without looking at quitting as their only solution. Businesses thrive in their DE&I initiatives when they make efforts to provide a level playing ground to their employees, despite the differences.
With the ongoing economic uncertainties, the demand-supply gap in India has increased, with a supply rate of 21%, which is the lowest among top tech locations such as the US, China and UK. However, there is a large untapped resource that can help companies address the skill gap: women. This is an opportunity for Indian businesses to reassess their investment in skill development, equip women within the organization with high-demand skills, and look into hiring more skilled women professionals. A recent report from Skillsoft found that more than work-life balance, and other organizational incentives, 52% of women in IT value learning and development. Empowering them with equitable opportunities can allow decision makers to redress the balance, and wholeheartedly embrace equity.
We, at Creative believe that upskilling during a break is a great way to learn and stay relevant. Our Sabbatical policy is specifically designed to ensure that “Creative” women can utilize the break to reskill/upskill themselves. Creative also has policies in place for reimbursement of professional career development costs. We are exploring newer initiatives to renew our commitment to “Creative” women in a more concrete and meaningful way.”
