HOUSTON, Texas. According to CNBC, under the gender pay gap, the average woman makes 80 cents for every dollar a man makes. Yet, a recent report indicates that the gender pay gap can vary greatly depending on where you live. In states like Wyoming and Utah, men are paid double what women make. This largely due to the male-dominated energy sector in these states. Another factor leading to a greater pay gap has to do with bias in certain industries. For example, certain industries have a greater pay gap than others.
So, what can be done about this?
According to the New York Times, a new law in Britain requires employers to publish their gender pay disparities. The hope is that by requiring companies to publish the gap, they will be publicly shamed into offering equal pay for equal work. They will at least be required to take a closer look at why the gap exists in the first place. The change in law has moved companies to increase initiatives for women. Women are being offered more mentorship opportunities and are encouraged to apply for promotions and advancement. The requirement to publish the gap has also helped researchers understand why it exists. For example, in Britain, more women are solicitors than partners in law firms, contributing to the gender pay gap. Women may also be reluctant to take on jobs typically held by men in tech, science, and engineering.
Yet, these things are changing.
More women and men are asking for flexibility to balance the demands of raising children and working. Women are asking for raises and for salary transparency. Yet, sometimes transparency isn’t forthcoming and companies may choose to promote more men than women. What can women do then?
Employment lawyers can help fight the gender pay gap by supporting who choose to pursue lawsuits against employers. Moore & Associates are employment lawyers in Houston, Texas who fight for wage fairness and equality.
What can you do if you found out that there’s a gender pay gap in your workplace? First of all, check to compare your salary between a person with similar experience and work duties as yours. Then, speak up. Contact human resources. Speak to your boss. Ask what’s going on. If you don’t get satisfactory answers, consider reaching out to an employment lawyer. Document everything as you try to understand why your pay is different. Save emails and other correspondence.
Women in workplaces can also band together to ask for more transparency about pay. If employers aren’t willing to come forward, having open discussions can help. But some workplaces may bar employees from discussing their wages.
Gender discrimination and harassment are other ways women get pushed out of high-paying high-power jobs. If gender discrimination or harassment caused you to move to a lower paying job, you may have rights as well.
If you’ve faced harassment or discrimination in the workplace, reach out to Moore & Associates today. We may be able to help you fight the gender pay gap in your industry.
Moore & Associates
440 Louisiana Street Suite 675
Houston, TX 77002
713-581-9001
