In a recent report by the UK-based women’s charity Smart Works, a new report sheds light on barriers that women face in their quest for employment.
Smart Works Unemployment Index gathered insights from 4912 unemployed females across the country and found that women were less likely to be employed than in the previous three years. In 2024, the average woman will face 38 failed job applications, compared to just 28 in 2022. 27 percent of respondents have applied for more than 50 jobs without success.
The report highlights several factors that contribute to these challenges, such as the increasingly difficult application process, the increasing use of artificial intelligent in recruitment and a highly-competitive job market. These challenges affect not only women but their families and dependents as well.
Women marginalised groups are more likely to face discrimination and violence than other women
The report found that women who are mothers, from ethnic minorities and women with disabilities face greater challenges in finding employment.
After interviews, ethnic minority women were significantly less likely to be offered a job. Only 63 percent of them received offers compared to the 67 percent for white women. Participants in focus groups cited biases that occurred during face-toface interviews as the main barrier. Women with disabilities also experienced a lower rate of success, with only 61 percent receiving a job offer after an interview, compared to 65 per cent for non-disabled females. The lack of employers who were willing to make reasonable accommodations was cited as one factor.
The rising costs of childcare and limited flexibility in working roles made it difficult for parents to return to work. Some women have indicated for the first time that these issues are preventing them from having children.
Ashleigh, 34, from London, who visited Smart Works 2024 said: “I had experience and knowledge.” You begin to think, Am I too old for this job? They worried that I would just get a job, and then go on maternity?
“I’m one of those women who would love to have a family if we were financially stable. But, my partner and I are completely priced out.” You learn quickly to avoid asking direct questions, as they will not hire you if you are adamant about having a family.
Job Application Processes Erode Confidence
Women’s self-confidence and well-being were affected by the demands of job searching. Women spend an average of 25 hours a week on job applications. This is equivalent to three full days. In 2023, 26 percent of respondents spent more than 25 hours per week on the job application process.
After the application process, more than one-fourth of women said that they felt less confident. This confidence loss is especially damaging for women who have been rejected or are facing long-term unemployment.
The Smart Works report, in response to this finding, calls for more transparency in recruitment. It also suggests reimbursement of interview travel expenses, tighter regulations on hiring processes and collaboration between charities to help unemployed women.
Smart Works provides interview coaching and dressing to unemployed women. 64 percent of clients secure a job in a month after their appointment.
Smart Works CEO Anna Hemmings said, “We are only a small part of the system that needs to be changed.” Everyone has a role to play and together, we can help these woman find work, gain their agency and change the course of their lives.
