--- title: "Women in the Workplace: Where We Stand in 2025" description: Women in the workplace still face pay gaps, bias and leadership barriers. 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- - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/women-in-the-workplace](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/women-in-the-workplace) - [mailto:?subject=Women%20in%20the%20Workplace:%20Where%20We%20Stand%20in%202025&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/women-in-the-workplace](mailto:?subject=Women%20in%20the%20Workplace:%20Where%20We%20Stand%20in%202025&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/women-in-the-workplace) ![Women in HR at Axcet HR Solutions celebrating International Women's Day 2025](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/international-women_s-day-2025%20(1).webp?width=1200&height=800&name=international-women_s-day-2025%20(1).webp) Women have come a long way in the workforce, but challenges like gender pay gaps, discrimination and work-life balance struggles still remain in some workplaces. Where they do, they continue to hold women back. March 8, International Women’s Day 2025, is a great time to reflect on progress, recognize ongoing issues and take real action toward workplace equality. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, HR professional or colleague, you can take meaningful steps to support women in the workplace. Let’s dive into the latest insights, real-world data and strategies to create work environments that are fairer and more inclusive for women. ## Women in the Workplace Statistics As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, understanding the latest statistics for women in the workforce helps us recognize progress while identifying areas where further action is needed. Women made up 47% of the U.S. civilian labor force in 2023, but growth has stagnated, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows. The BLS projects that women will continue to make up [slightly less than half of the labor force](https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/civilian-labor-force-summary.htm) through 2032. [![increasing women in manufacturing recruiting tips](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/305193f6-a63b-4e65-b7cd-e32aeed021e7.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/305193f6-a63b-4e65-b7cd-e32aeed021e7) ## Representation in Leadership Women are making strides in leadership, but progress is slow in upper-level positions. - The number of [Fortune 500 women CEOs](https://fortune.com/2024/06/04/share-of-fortune-500-businesses-run-by-women/) hit a record high in 2024, but women still fill only 10.4% of CEO roles among these companies. - Among companies of all sizes, women held [29% of C-suite roles](https://leanin.org/women-in-the-workplace) and 39% of managerial roles in 2024. - Women hold less than 25% of senior leadership roles in STEM fields and finance. Better yet, companies benefit when women advance. [Morgan Stanley’s long-term analysis of global companies](https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/gender-diversity-investor-returns)found that those with greater gender diversity—particularly in leadership—tended to outperform their peers, delivering **stronger return on equity and lower earnings volatility** than companies with less diverse leadership. The findings reinforce what many leaders already recognize: gender-balanced teams contribute to stronger decision-making, improved innovation, and more resilient business performance. RELATED: [Ending the SHEcession Benefits Women and Businesses Alike >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/ending-the-shecession-benefits-women-businesses-alike) ## Challenges Women Face in the Workplace Despite progress, women continue to face major barriers, including: ### The Gender Pay Gap Women earn about [82 cents for every dollar men make](https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/02/27/for-womens-history-month-a-look-at-gender-gains-and-gaps-in-the-us/), according to Pew Research Center. The gap is even wider for women of color and those in senior roles. While pay transparency laws have helped, true wage equity is still out of reach. ### Harassment & Discrimination Workplace harassment and [discrimination](https://www.americanprogress.org/article/playbook-for-the-advancement-of-women-in-the-economy/ending-discrimination-and-harassment-at-work/) remain serious problems. One in three women report experiencing [harassment at work](https://blog.axcethr.com/not-on-my-watch-six-types-of-harassment-in-the-workplace), and 42% say they’ve faced gender discrimination in hiring and promotions. High-profile cases in tech, finance and entertainment underscore the need for systemic change. ### Work-Life Balance and Unpaid Labor Women still handle the majority of caregiving and household duties. The World Economic Forum reports that women do 2.5 times more unpaid labor than men do, making it harder to advance in their careers. In many organizations, limited paid parental leave forces women to choose between work and family, setting back their professional growth. [![Explore our PEO Services](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-184583802742.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKFthCvqFURNPG0S9ENGITzYztsGowVEspG1hKMRM80sYn2Z1Sxyv9rQi7yezqfGnYluU6cihxs7NKFSExv%2Fui4M8aOTrxeU2l7UL2lbMGoYHaxK%2BBf1NePgOvOsGhiiVIl3i8s8JM26Odu6jGfZ%2BVF1YFpROBnVStbvfGys78lwoSjlIxLWJEYZNXjoxZ8oE%2FLUN7ESq3OYEsNCj48i6lcv7uymARScMI4CnTH&webInteractiveContentId=184583802742&portalId=2652187) ## How to Support Women in the Workplace Businesses of all sizes can take steps to foster gender equality. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), change starts with practical policies, including: ### Pay Equity Conduct regular pay audits and create clear, standardized pay scales. ### Flexible Work Options Hybrid schedules, job-sharing and remote work help all employees balance career and family. ### Inclusive Workplaces Implement anti-bias training, establish mentorship programs and provide safe, anonymous ways for employees to report harassment. ### Alliance and Advocacy Actively recognize women’s contributions, amplify their voices and create opportunities for growth. RELATED: [Pregnancy Discrimination Laws - Facts for Employers >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/pregnancy-discrimination-laws-facts-for-employers) ## The Role of International Women’s Day in the Workplace International Women’s Day 2025 is more than just a celebration – it’s a call to action. Observed every year on March 8, IWD highlights women’s achievements and promotes gender equality. The 2025 [theme, “Accelerate Action,”](https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Theme) emphasizes the need to break down systemic barriers that hold women back. Companies can participate by hosting events, launching initiatives, revising outdated policies to promote pay equity and raising awareness through workshops on topics like unconscious bias and mentorship. ## Making a Difference for Women in the Workplace Real change takes ongoing effort—from closing the pay gap to creating more inclusive workplaces and advocating for better policies. International Women’s Day 2025 is a great reminder that progress doesn’t happen overnight. It takes commitment at every level, from CEOs to colleagues who uplift and support the women around them. [![Axcet HR Solutions Employee Relations Solutions helping small businesses in kansas city and across the country](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-189259369129.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLJFCne1TM983HTv4NF9hIAXr57hEWcyOyPams0l4ZhQIPsUcT5QLGPB24j4Fdk2nZ3t7OojZnHv5aEHdYSDbI69Y6AbkJdL%2Fnu0VVFPuiTDYq1sl%2FiOblUGzpGAqdRMc05j5V%2Be%2Bx8W6aWY6%2FP0iZNE%2B61EL0xDgxCyX3%2FkquD0eJAW0%2FwSnjvRg8yKML9xm46Q0azqUIiZhuEEfSJBP%2BzoXUE6SOQdPzpnK%2F0CDiObVfUQ34tK%2FJE9Jqk4r3cwaepN8gM3clY7uqDBoKbFZdNPwbRabBDpPNEbC8WlGvS7cw%3D%3D&webInteractiveContentId=189259369129&portalId=2652187) ## **Make 2025 the Year of Real Progress** This year, take action! Celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 meaningfully and push for real change in your workplace. Need guidance? Axcet HR Solutions, a [certified PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/services/) headquartered in Kansas City and serving businesses from coast-to-coast, can help you build an inclusive, equitable work environment. [Schedule a consultation](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) today and start making a difference. [![Follow Axcet HR Solutions on Facebook](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/interactive-178216580776.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIhJkzapOQlVrmLQQzLmUECDmH0jPZXpcVJkJZHS3tjFdWNPe0p1%2FGxv2q0uaY60EaY6gxA6uiLpiJl1DWVQDtkYHFp3xaIE6EUSnpf%2B31FmoSIasmOASOt5exLn2uILMs1Gb6iU9P8ADYlmhtLhvbFgd8uVV7h6vYomf%2FX240pPdcy&webInteractiveContentId=178216580776&portalId=2652187) [![Jeanette Coleman, SPHR & SHRM-SCP](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Jeanette-04.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=Jeanette-04.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman) Written by #### [Jeanette Coleman, SPHR & SHRM-SCP](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman) Jeanette Coleman, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the Director of Human Resources at Axcet HR Solutions, where she has contributed her expertise for over 21 years. As a leader in the HR industry, she holds advanced certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Jeanette oversees HR strategy and operations, ensuring Axcet delivers exceptional HR services that help small and mid-sized businesses stay compliant and grow. With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Keller Graduate School and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kansas State University, Jeanette is well-equipped to lead and support clients in navigating complex HR challenges. Throughout her 15-year tenure as Director of Human Resources, she has been instrumental in positioning Axcet as the Midwest’s largest and premier Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Her previous roles at Axcet include Director of Employee Benefits and Senior HR Consultant, where she gained extensive experience in HR outsourcing, and employee risk management. Jeanette’s expertise has been recognized through industry and regional publications. She co-authored the article “High-Touch in the Age of High-Tech: How PEOs Can Embrace AI Without Losing Their Humanity” (https://peoinsider.org/articles/high-touch-in-the-age-of-high-tech-how-peos-can-embrace-ai-without-losing-their-humanity/) for PEO Insider (March 2026), alongside Jo McClure, and was featured in Ingram’s Magazine in a Q&A (https://ingrams.com/article/qa-with-jeanette-coleman/) discussing generational change, technology, and workplace culture. These contributions reflect her perspective on balancing innovation with the human side of HR. Jeanette’s leadership reflects her deep commitment to helping businesses thrive through strategic, compliance-driven HR solutions. Through her writing, she shares insights on HR strategy, compliance, and best practices to help employers confidently manage their workforce. Published in: PEO Insider and Ingram's Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents ### Related Resources - [services Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) #### [How to Conduct an Effective Active Shooter Drill at Work ![Workplace Violence: Most Active Shooter Incidents Occur at Work](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Blog%20Active%20Shooter.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-violence-most-active-shooter-incidents-occur-at-work) #### [![Axcet HR Solutions team, including Jeanette Coleman, Director of HR, discussing compliance strategies for the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report.](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/BOI-Report-%20(1).webp) BOI Report Deadline Reinstated: What Small Businesses Need to Know](https://blog.axcethr.com/the-boi-report-explained-a-small-business-guide) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jeanette Coleman, SPHR & SHRM-SCP", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman" }, "dateModified" : "2025-12-03T22:08:09.225Z", "datePublished" : "2025-03-04T18:14:54.000Z", "headline" : "Women in the Workplace: Where We Stand in 2025", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/women-in-the-workplace-international-women_s-day%20(1).webp" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/women-in-the-workplace", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. 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Where they do, they continue to hold women back. March 8, International Women’s Day 2025, is a great time to reflect on progress, recognize ongoing issues and take real action toward workplace equality. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, HR professional or colleague, you can take meaningful steps to support women in the workplace. Let’s dive into the latest insights, real-world data and strategies to create work environments that are fairer and more inclusive for women. Women in the Workplace Statistics As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, understanding the latest statistics for women in the workforce helps us recognize progress while identifying areas where further action is needed. Women made up 47% of the U.S. civilian labor force in 2023, but growth has stagnated, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows. The BLS projects that women will continue to make up slightly less than half of the labor force through 2032. Representation in Leadership Women are making strides in leadership, but progress is slow in upper-level positions. The number of Fortune 500 women CEOs hit a record high in 2024, but women still fill only 10.4% of CEO roles among these companies. Among companies of all sizes, women held 29% of C-suite roles and 39% of managerial roles in 2024. Women hold less than 25% of senior leadership roles in STEM fields and finance. Better yet, companies benefit when women advance. Morgan Stanley’s long-term analysis of global companies found that those with greater gender diversity—particularly in leadership—tended to outperform their peers, delivering stronger return on equity and lower earnings volatility than companies with less diverse leadership. The findings reinforce what many leaders already recognize: gender-balanced teams contribute to stronger decision-making, improved innovation, and more resilient business performance. RELATED: Ending the SHEcession Benefits Women and Businesses Alike >> Challenges Women Face in the Workplace Despite progress, women continue to face major barriers, including: The Gender Pay Gap Women earn about 82 cents for every dollar men make, according to Pew Research Center. The gap is even wider for women of color and those in senior roles. While pay transparency laws have helped, true wage equity is still out of reach. Harassment & Discrimination Workplace harassment and discrimination remain serious problems. One in three women report experiencing harassment at work, and 42% say they’ve faced gender discrimination in hiring and promotions. High-profile cases in tech, finance and entertainment underscore the need for systemic change. Work-Life Balance and Unpaid Labor Women still handle the majority of caregiving and household duties. The World Economic Forum reports that women do 2.5 times more unpaid labor than men do, making it harder to advance in their careers. In many organizations, limited paid parental leave forces women to choose between work and family, setting back their professional growth. How to Support Women in the Workplace Businesses of all sizes can take steps to foster gender equality. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), change starts with practical policies, including: Pay Equity Conduct regular pay audits and create clear, standardized pay scales. Flexible Work Options Hybrid schedules, job-sharing and remote work help all employees balance career and family. Inclusive Workplaces Implement anti-bias training, establish mentorship programs and provide safe, anonymous ways for employees to report harassment. Alliance and Advocacy Actively recognize women’s contributions, amplify their voices and create opportunities for growth. RELATED: Pregnancy Discrimination Laws - Facts for Employers >> The Role of International Women’s Day in the Workplace International Women’s Day 2025 is more than just a celebration – it’s a call to action. Observed every year on March 8, IWD highlights women’s achievements and promotes gender equality. The 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasizes the need to break down systemic barriers that hold women back. Companies can participate by hosting events, launching initiatives, revising outdated policies to promote pay equity and raising awareness through workshops on topics like unconscious bias and mentorship. Making a Difference for Women in the Workplace Real change takes ongoing effort—from closing the pay gap to creating more inclusive workplaces and advocating for better policies. International Women’s Day 2025 is a great reminder that progress doesn’t happen overnight. It takes commitment at every level, from CEOs to colleagues who uplift and support the women around them. Make 2025 the Year of Real Progress This year, take action! Celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 meaningfully and push for real change in your workplace. Need guidance? Axcet HR Solutions, a certified PEO headquartered in Kansas City and serving businesses from coast-to-coast, can help you build an inclusive, equitable work environment. Schedule a consultation today and start making a difference.", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jeanette Coleman, SPHR & SHRM-SCP", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/jeanette-coleman" }, "dateCreated" : "2025-03-04", "dateModified" : "2025-12-03", "datePublished" : "2025-03-04", "description" : "Women have come a long way in the workforce, but challenges like gender pay gaps, discrimination and work-life balance struggles still remain in some workplaces. Where they do, they continue to hold women back. 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