Gender equity reduces hostile, sexist behavior toward women in frontline roles

A recent Catalyst survey of nearly 4,500 frontline employees across industries in Canada, the U.K., and the U.S. reveals alarming levels of hostile, sexist behavior in the workplace, with 60% of employees—both women (61%) and men (58%)—reporting these experiences in the past year. The study highlights how gender stereotypes and a pervasive climate of silence—where employees feel discouraged from speaking up about work-related issues—foster this behavior. Specifically, 89% of frontline workers feel pressure to conform, which exacerbates gender-based hostility and reinforces harmful stereotypes. DEI Practitioners and frontline managers must tune into these findings and take action via the data-driven insights provided for addressing hostile, sexist behavior, fostering a more inclusive climate, and breaking down gender stereotypes. By addressing these issues, organizations can create a more inclusive, respectful workplace that benefits employees of all genders, improves morale, and reduces turnover.