Running head: WOMEN AND CAREERS

Women and careers Name Date

WOMEN AND CAREERS

In the recent years, women have made great strides in regards to their careers. However, they still face extreme challenges as they work extra hard with the major aim of going beyond their male counterparts. They wish to gain respect, get paid competitively for any task they perform and be given equal recognition in all fields as far as careers are concerned. It is thus important to maintain skills and insight to ensure that one does not lose the grip of own career. According to Everett (1994), Women find it hard to resume jobs after long moments of absenteeism. This is due to the stretched duties and responsibilities of taking care of children as well as the need to pursue other interests. It is almost impossible to keep oneself in loop while one is away. Returning to work becomes extremely nerve-racking because one feels to be completely out of control. Women are not able to keep their career skills current or even brush up their interview aptitude in case they need a new job. They most a times need to take short courses while away in order to get ideas regarding any development that may come up in the industry. More strain emerges since they have to keep their toes in the water or even think about working part-time. Dissuasion emerges when women in similar careers as men earn less because of the vicious cycle that has been existent as well as other prejudices created by the various societal norms. The biases that women are a weaker sex than men and that they come after them can be fought though. However, no one is willing to fight them. This makes the women to end up far behind the road because they lack the potential and ability to stand up for themselves. They end up harboring resentment towards their employers which results into poor job performance and low satisfaction. (Carol & Sally, 1994).

WOMEN AND CAREERS

The major solution to the above challenges is the application of dialogue where appropriate. Negotiation is very invaluable in such cases. One has to stand up and ask for what they want. Whatever you aim at negotiating as long as you have all the facts at hand builds a solid case for oneself as well as visualizes the results as positive. Do not cling to the gender issues but, a positive attitude towards the solution of the problem makes one feel to be half way there (Maurice & Timothy, 2008). Saroj (1999) argues that it is prudent to practice to devote oneself fully and pay attention to oness priority at a time. Honor the different aspects of life truly, that is, family and job, and you realize that you will be more fulfilled than ever. Organize your time efficiently to avoid unnecessary dread. Be honest and say no when you feel too tired or have some other obligations away from your career. Make time for whatever you want to make time for. Finally, one should always be firm and not forceful. When you need a favor, be clear, direct and listen attentively to whatever response the other person has to give. If you say no, it is very sufficient. Avoid stiff confrontations especially at the work place. As a woman, you shall feel appreciated both at home and career wise if you call for it yourself.

WOMEN AND CAREERS

References Carol, K. & Sally, K. (1994). Women and Career: Issues and Challenges, London: Longman. Everett, J. (1994). Career and Gender: The Conceptual Challenge, London: Longman. Maurice, P. & Timothy, B. (2008). Challenges of the Faculty Career for Women: Success and Sacrifice. Saroj, P. (1999). Integration Work and Family: Challenges and Choices for a Changing World.