7 Myths About Women and Work

March 4, 2013
Australian journalist Fox investigates common misconceptions and biases that prevent women from reaching high level employment. She begins with the insidious myth that workplaces are meritocracies with an "even playing field" and those with top jobs are "simply better equipped." In reality, studies show that women are paid less than men, are underrepresented in accelerated development programs, and blatantly discriminated against at all levels. Fox questions the belief that women lack ambition and have a "natural inclination to focus on their family," noting that women internalize these sexist messages and equate ambition with selfishness and lack of femininity. High profile women are attacked by the media as either too cold or too emotional. Meanwhile, working mothers are responsible for child-rearing and most housework in 70% of households, resulting in underemployment for many highly skilled, well-educated women. Fox deconstructs the fraudulent "pipeline myth," which asserts that as more women graduate with higher degrees the imbalance in upper level jobs will correct itself, and also presents "Case Studies" featuring businesses working on solutions to the gender gap. This book is a terrific resource for those who seek real solutions to diversity problems or even a better understanding of the often subtle psychology of discrimination.

Starred review from April 1, 2013

Award-winning journalist Fox (deputy editor, AFR BOSS; Better Than Sex: How a Whole Generation Got Hooked on Work) systematically dispels seven myths about women and work: these state that workplaces are meritocracies, the gender gap is exaggerated, women don't want the top jobs, women with children don't want a career, quotas and targets are dangerous and unnecessary, women should act more like men (and are their own worst enemies), and time will heal all. Focusing on the stereotypes of women in the Australian workplace, Fox presents evidence from companies such as the not-for-profit U.S. firm Catalyst to prove that the notion that "women don't ask" for promotions is false. The author suggests different approaches to "myth busting" and maintains that "normalising women's participation as leaders, decision-makers, and workers in all walks of life has driven me to attack the myths." The chapters are complete with case studies and extensive bibliographical references for further reading. VERDICT A groundbreaking look at women in the workplace. The author's expertise and research will reach business professionals, students, and those researching women's studies or workplace-related issues. Informative, thought provoking, and highly recommended.--Lucy Heckman, St. John's Univ. Lib., Jamaica, NY

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