Gender equality in the workplace: A case for Generation z women

Abstract

Gender bias continues to be a pervasive issue in the workplace, impacting career progression, remuneration, and overall job satisfaction for women. It is one of the main reasons why women’s careers stagnate. Although considerable research has examined gender bias, gender discrimination and gender inequities, only a limited number of studies investigate how Generation Z (Gen Z) women experience and navigate workplace gender bias, and their views on how to address gender bias in the workplace. This study aims to analyse the experiences of Gen Z women in the workplace, focusing on their methods for combating gender bias and their views on eliminating systemic inequities. An interpretivist perspective was adopted for this study. Through a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, utilising semi-structured interviews, the lived experiences of female Gen Z professionals were explored to gain insight into their experiences with gender bias in the workplace. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, revealing the strategies that are employed by Gen Z women to navigate gender bias and their views on how gender bias can be eliminated. This study enhances the sparse research on Gen Z's employment experiences and offers suggestions for organisations to foster more inclusive cultures. It underscores the necessity for focused gender-equity measures that cater to the unique expectations and advocacy strategies of Gen Z women.