Ahead of International Women’s Day 2025 (8 March), global talent firm Robert Walters shares new data on workplace barriers for women.
Habiba Khatoon, Director at Robert Walters Midlands, says: “While visibility remains a challenge, progress is underway. Companies recognise the need for inclusive role models, but continued effort is crucial to support women’s advancement at every stage.”
Half of female professionals struggle to find inspiring women at work—20% have none, and 30% rarely see them. Career growth remains tough, with ‘glass ceiling’ and ‘broken rung’ barriers still in place. Robert Walters' research shows 37% of women feel their efforts go unrecognised compared to male peers. Habiba Khatoon says, “More women in leadership is progress, but greater diversity at the top is key to true workplace equality and representation.”
Last month, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stirred debate by saying corporate culture is ‘neutered’ and needs more ‘masculine energy.’ A Robert Walters poll shows a split—48% agree workplace attitudes have softened, while 52% see positive change. Habiba Khatoon says, “Framing this as ‘male vs female’ fuels division rather than progress.”
Beyond culture, the 13.1% gender pay gap means women work up to seven weeks unpaid each year. Nearly half (46%) feel unsupported in career advancement. Habiba adds, “Stricter pay equity checks in the Employment Rights Bill will drive fairer wages, stronger GDP, and better workplaces.”
Research from Simplyhealth shows that 3.5 million women have considered quitting due to a lack of menopause support, while the Fawcett Society found one in ten working mothers leave due to caregiving challenges. Robert Walters’ research highlights the top workplace benefits for women: professional development programs (40%), childcare and family-planning support (34%*), and menopause/menstruation leave (21%*). Habiba Khatoon emphasises, “Development plans must address women’s workplace challenges—offering flexible work for caregivers, realistic goals, and menopause leave without career setbacks.”
