In the Philippine workforce, inequalities still exist though most workplaces are moving towards being more inclusive.
For instance, it is often expected of a woman to juggle her role as a corporate employee and a homemaker. Yet, one would not impose the same responsibility on a man.
Women, even if they come from different places and walks of life, face common challenges as they make their way into the world.
Whether you are single or a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), here’s how you can create camaraderie with your fellow working women.
Have Each Other’s Backs
Many women are subjected to unfair treatment within the workplace. It does not always mean explosive arguments in the meeting room or blatant discrimination. Disrespect also happens in subtle ways.
For instance, women are frequently cut off when speaking. This action often results in qualified women being hesitant about speaking their opinions less and less.
Or it could also be a male colleague repeating what your female co-worker had already said – and then getting the credit for it. (Anyone ever heard of “mansplaining?”)
As such, when you encounter such behavior in the workplace, it’s best to nip it in the bud – even if it’s not happening to you.
Speak up in defense of your fellow remote working women. When you do so, a coworker is more likely to stop and think about their actions the next time. They will make sure what they say or do is within the boundaries of a good working relationship.
Have Conversations About “Caregiving”
While more men are putting in the effort of running a household, a large population of women is still the primary “caregivers” of their families.
However, this does not mean that working women are only taking care of their kids. Being a “caregiver” also implies that women look after their aging parents and their husbands (after they get back from their own jobs), not to mention all the other tasks needed to run a house well.
Thus, normalize making allowances for your female remote work colleagues who are also caregivers at home.
Be Proactive About Reaching Out to Fellow Women
And in connection to the previous point, part of how to be an ally to women is to have all kinds of conversations—small talks, quick chats, and deep dialogues about various topics- even difficult or commonly-overlooked ones.
A simple (and sincere!) check-in from time to time would probably mean a lot. It would show that you care about your female colleagues’ well-being.
It also helps to be open and honest when communicating. Hold a safe space for your female remote coworkers – and let them do the same for you.
If you or any of the ladies have any uncomfortable interactions, it’s also best to discuss it openly instead of behind each others’ backs. Doing so allows you to come up with a better approach the next time it happens.
Actively Dismantle Outdated and Sexist Practices Among Women at Work
Lastly, don’t think of your fellow working women as competition. Instead, lift each other up.
When you see sexist behavior from other people towards your female colleagues, be sure to stand up for your fellow working women as needed.
Women deserve to take up space in any job or company they wish to be a part of. They also shouldn’t have to worry about watching their backs when it comes to their fellow working women.
Inclusion and Belonging in the Workplace
It takes effort to connect with your fellow women in the workplace, even in this day and age.
Different time zones and literal miles of distance are the two most common challenges when forming a strong female friendship online.
Still, you’d be surprised by the power of female friendship.
On that note, if you wish to be part of a company that highly values its female leaders, then check out Remote Staff. The company has a regularly updated job listing.
As you can see on Remote Staff’s website, many women take the lead, with the company’s very own Rica Jankulovski at the helm. Remote Staff has also been in the industry for 15 years and has given work-from-home opportunities to countless Filipino remote workers.
Want to be part of this amazing team? Register today!
