Women on top in exams, not promotions

As per an Assocham survey, women are finding it increasingly difficult to get promoted to top jobs. As a result, more women in metros are self-employed, reports Srinand Jha.

Despite obtaining higher marks in examinations and performing better at workplaces, women are finding it increasingly difficult to get promoted to top jobs in both the public and the private sector, a new survey reveals. As a result, more and more women in the metros are opting for self-employment.

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Results of the yet-to-be published survey, conducted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), reveal that just 3.3 per cent women are elevated to top positions, while the vast majority (78.9 per cent) continues to grind at junior levels. At the middle levels are 17.7 per cent of the women surveyed.

When it comes to women’s job preferences, the following picture emerges: 58.66 per cent of the total of 1,053 women surveyed want employment in the public/private sector, 33.66 per cent prefer to remain housewives, while self-employment is the option for 7.67 per cent.

Inability to stay back late at work and a disinclination for jobs involving travel and transfers have been identified as major constraints for women in achieving top positions, said Assocham president Venugopal N. Dhoot. The survey also brings out the aspect that women receive less approval and recognition from male bosses.

Only 27 per cent women felt their husbands were supportive in sharing duties, including cooking, cleaning and looking after children. Health problems, gender discrimination and possessive husbands have been identified as other prominent factors obstructing growth prospects of career women. To overcome such problems, Assocham has recommended a national policy for promoting women in top levels of management.