How can employers better support mothers in the workplace?
In a recent poll on Catalyst’s Twitter and LinkedIn, we asked what mothers most wanted from their employer for Mother’s Day. What should employers provide mothers to create equity?
The resounding response was “equal pay.” This is not surprising. Research shows US mothers earn just 75 cents for every dollar paid to White, non-Hispanic fathers.
But we also know flexible work, paid leave, and childcare are critical.
Here are some actions employers can take:
- Close the pay gap.
- Develop and implement paid leave policies. One study found that when employers increase paid leave benefits, there is a 50% decline in attrition of new mothers.
- Offer remote and workplace flexibility.
- Provide childcare support by committing to develop innovative solutions and policies to ensure that everyone can participate in the workplace.