Organizational practices supporting women and their satisfaction and well‐being

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the relationship of the perceived presence of organizational practices designed to support women's career advancement and their work and extra‐work satisfaction and psychological well‐being.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 98 early career women in Australia using anonymously completed questionnaires. Five organizational practices combined into a composite measure were considered; top management support and intervention, policies and resources, use of gender in human resource management, training and development initiatives and recruiting and external relations efforts.FindingsWomen reporting more organizational practices supportive of women, with higher levels of job and career satisfaction, and indicated fewer psychosomatic symptoms and less emotional exhaustion. Organizational practices were unrelated to intent to quit or extra‐work satisfactions and physical or emotional well‐being.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research is needed to determine if results generalize to women in later career stages.Practical implicationsGuidance for organizations interested in supporting women's career advancement are offered.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates an understanding of the qualities that are part of work environments that are supportive of the career aspirations of women (and men).