Many women suffer workplace discrimination for things that won’t affect their male colleagues as much, if at all. This is in addition to some employers simply favoring hiring men over women in general.
This can result in a woman having a much more difficult time throughout her career. Here are four common preconceived notions employers often hold about their women employees at different stages:
1. They’re “too young”
Some employers view younger female employees as not serious enough for a particular role. While a male laughing with colleagues might be viewed as a good sign, some employers may consider a young female employee doing the same as giddy or foolish.
2. They’re “likely to become pregnant”
Some employers resent having to give pregnancy leave. They may avoid hiring or promoting a woman they think might be likely to want children in the near future. If a woman does become pregnant, her employer might then try to force her out.
3. They’re “menopausal”
One survey found that 80% of the women interviewed said they found managing symptoms of the perimenopause or menopause difficult while at work. Many feel that the health issues they experience are not treated the same as other health issues, and fear reprisals or outright discrimination once they are viewed as less youthful, less energetic or less focused. Women may also feel obliged to drop their hours to cope if their employer does not make accommodations for their situation. They might also face verbal discrimination, such as jokes about the menopause in the workplace.
California legislation (AB 1940) would, if passed, “add perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause to the definition of “sex” under the Fair Employment and Housing Act, making discrimination based on these conditions unlawful.”
4. They’re “too old”
Some employers will pass over women they consider too old to be attractive anymore. For example, when hiring a new secretary, recruiting servers for a bar or anyone in a client-facing position. The fact that they are more experienced at the job may be ignored completely. While this can happen to men, it’s less common.
If you face discrimination at work, remember that California laws offer stronger-than-average protection. With help to understand your options, you can decide how best to proceed.