Research to be released shows workplaces at risk of losing skills war

Research to be released next week by the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA) shows that employers are failing to provide workplaces that will overcome the skills shortage and remain competitive.

The EOWA research uncovers the significant disconnect between what women and men want and expect from a workplace and what they are experiencing in reality. Generation F: Attract, Engage, Retain will be released on Monday 28 April.

According to EOWA Director, Anna McPhee, “The research has clear implications for Australian employers that they risk watching the best talent pass them by unless they take the findings of our research on board”.

“In an economy where productivity is being threatened by a lack of talent, the EOWA research provides information about the crucial areas where workplaces need to become more innovative,” says Ms McPhee.

Some of the key findings include:

• Men acknowledge that widespread gender inequities in the workplace make if difficult for women to achieve.

• Lack of career development motivate men and women to look for a new employer despite aspirations for a role with more responsibility.

• Both men and women believe that the workplace does not meet the needs of parents.

• Employees across the board are shifting focus away from their careers and putting more emphasis on families and relationships.

• Nearly half of all employees do not feel that they have access to flexible work conditions.

The Generation F publication and background information will be available for download from Monday 28 April at: www.eowa.gov.au/Media_Page

AAP