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Kathleen Martin

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It has become increasingly clear that there will not likely be a definitive “end” to the pandemic — and workplaces are trying to figure out what that means for them moving forward. As tech companies in particular consider whether they want to bring workers back into the office full time, all for full time remote work, or follow a “hybrid” model, there’s another question they should be considering.
Could a “post-pandemic” tech industry finally center women? 
The sins of the industry when it comes to women in tech are well-documented — and we don’t need to rehash them here. Instead, let’s take a look at some ways tech workplaces could reorient in order to better meet the needs of women in the workforce.
Hybrid work
Working some days in the office and others remotely — or “hybrid work” — is often touted as being better for women. That’s likely because women still shoulder a greater burden when it comes to caretaking in the home. From cleaning to cooking to managing the kids’ schedules, women are more likely to work the second shift than are their male partners, regardless of who is making more money at work. 
Hybrid work and remote work, therefore, are viewed as more flexible; more accommodating to the many commitments a working mother likely has. But a recent piece in Politico points out that pre-pandemic hybrid work actually ended up “ghettoizing” moms, as their choice to be at home and not in-office 24/7 was often perceived as not working as hard or not being as much of a team player. 
If more companies are going to offer remote or hybrid work moving forward — which seems to be the case — then clear policy and cultural changes will need to be implemented to ensure that this type of “mommy tracking” doesn’t continue. For example, some companies are requiring hybrid work, which means no one is singled out for choosing to be home some of the time.
Designated meeting hours
Politico describes Etsy’s new “Prime Time” policy, which suggests that teams holds meetings between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. That makes it easier for parents to work around kids’ schedules. Those meetings can also be held in-office or remotely or in a hybrid manner, creating a working situation that is both structured and flexible. It’s an innovative way to reimagine the work day while keeping working parents in mind. 
Continue reading: https://securityboulevard.com/2021/11/women-in-post-pandemic-tech-industry-avast/
 

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