smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

If you think the pay gap between the sexes is closing, think again. Research by Smallbusiness.co.uk shows that women are still finishing second when it comes to salaries.

According to the poll, 34 per cent of respondents state that women are ‘definitely not’ paid fairly, with 11 per cent saying the lack of equality inspired them to go and start their own business. 

Karen Gill, co-founder of Everywoman, an online source of information for women in business, comments: 'It's absurd that men earn more than women, especially considering that more women complete university than men. Yet despite this – and women's increasing prominence in the workforce – they are not holding as many senior or high-paid positions. The old issues of childcare and family commitment are still cited as reasons for this.'

Kamel Hothi, Asian markets director at Lloyds TSB, says that while that the salary gap is improving (along with 15 per cent of respondents), there are issues that need to be addressed, especially around maternity leave.

‘It’s during the period of absences, such as when women take time off to look after children, that the differences occur,’ she tells Smallbusiness.co.uk. ‘While you're being the homemaker, you do miss out on opportunities.’

This can relate to promotions or bonuses. ‘While I’m out of sight, I’m out of mind as well,’ she continues, adding that larger organisations are now showing a better understanding of the issue.’

Gill believes there is a long way to go to achieve gender equality in the UK: 'Even with advances in technology, which have facilitated more flexible working hours, companies still need to accommodate women and address the situation.'

Over 250 people responded to the Smallbusiness.co.uk poll.

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