Women in the Workforce: How Salary Transparency Laws and Self-Advocacy Can Help Close the Gender Pay Gap

While progress has been made in narrowing the gender gap, women in today's workforce still face significant disparities. The 2022 Global Gender Gap Report predicts that it will take 132 more years for the gender gap to close completely. Furthermore, Generation Z women are now experiencing the effects of the pay gap. A recent study by Handshake, a career platform for college students, revealed that young women in this group who seek employment expect to earn an average salary of $6,200 less than their male counterparts anticipate making.
 

Valerie Capers Workman, Handshake's Chief Legal Officer, expressed her surprise that women are still asking for lower salaries and have lower salary expectations. "I thought that the messages conveyed by successful women would have been heard," she told CNBC. "However, we are still battling societal issues that we have not yet overcome."
 
Salary transparency laws can potentially address the gender pay gap, according to Valerie Capers Workman, Handshake's chief legal officer. Workman suggests that such laws can eliminate bias in the employment process and level the playing field for all candidates, enabling companies to start everyone at the correct salary. The following states and cities have already implemented salary transparency laws: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Nevada, New York City, Rhode Island, and Washington. However, closing the gender gap and achieving workplace equality will require more effort, including on the part of women.
 
Negotiate with Confidence
 
Women may avoid negotiation due to risk aversion or fear of consequences. However, it is crucial to recognize your value and negotiate for it in the workplace. Don't hesitate to ask for what you deserve.
 
Showcase Your Skills and Achievements
 
While boasting about oneself may come off as obnoxious, promoting your skills and accomplishments is necessary. Get comfortable with self-advocacy when interacting with your superiors. They will notice and appreciate your efforts.
 
Stay Connected and Network
 
Networking is not just a job search activity but a continuous process of advancing your career. Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and active, and stay in touch with former colleagues and college friends. You never know when a professional favor may be needed, or you may be able to assist another woman in need.