The impact of Covid-19 on women

In commemoration of International Women’s Day on March 8, Emma Mer, CEO of FNB Loans, shared her thoughts on the impact of Covid-19 on women and how we are learning and evolving as a result.

The McKinsey Women in Work 2020 report indicated one in four American women consider downshifting their careers or leaving the workplace. The report states that the “double-shift” that women have already been working has become even more intense.

In South Africa, the Income Dynamics Study – Coronavirus Rapid Mobile Survey reported that of the three million job losses reported in 2020, two million were women.

“For those fortunate enough to have jobs, our days are often filled with technology, ensuring the continuation of children’s education or logistical changes, occupying children while in meetings or presenting or doing general household chores and working late to catch up on work,” Mer said.

Mer said global leaders like Sheryl Sandberg have raised concerns that the impact of the pandemic is a threat to the progress women made in the workplace over the past decade.

“This is because of the delicate balancing act and load that so many of us are juggling. I see it as an opportunity to challenge our thinking and evolve our approach in business and society when it comes to our new reality by fully supporting this evolution,” she said.

The CEO said inclusivity from a business perspective should be viewed with an even broader lens. Male and female leaders should continue to be given exposure and ‘open the door’ to opportunities for women.

“When operating in such a virtual world of work, this is a deliberate effort of stepping aside to allow women to lead a project, pitch, take their rightful seat at the boardroom table and drive initiatives. Succession plans can play a valuable role in this if they are deliberate, fair and supported by mentors and sponsors.”

Mer added the pandemic has put a spotlight on businesses and political leaders and the value that people place on empathy, communication, collaboration, teamwork, relationships and the ability to motivate.

“I am hopeful this will be sustained well beyond the pandemic. These are all categories that many women excel in and allowed to tap into these and use it to better society and business, could create even more of a platform for women to thrive in the workforce and beyond. To the mom assisting customers on the phone while her children are playing next to her, to the daughter taking care of her parents, to the manager running a meeting and worrying about what’s for dinner, to the friend checking in regularly with those who need her, to the leader who gives care and support to her team – we see you, value you and thank you for helping us all learn how to be better. Happy International Women’s Month,” Mer said.

Information supplied by: Themba Msimango (FNB)

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