Beyond the Numbers – How to Turn Gender Pay Gap Data into Meaningful Action

The gender pay gap is more than just a compliance issue – it reflects deeper structural inequalities that hinder workplace progress. Despite growing efforts to close the gap, the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report (2023) states that at the current rate, it will take 131 years to achieve global gender parity in economic participation.

At Netwomen, we believe gender pay gap reporting should not be just a box-ticking exercise. True impact comes from taking action on insights, embedding inclusive leadership into business strategy, and holding leaders accountable for results.

Why Pay Gap Reporting Alone is Not Enough

Many companies produce gender pay gap reports, but too often, data does not lead to action. A 2023 PwC UK report found that:

• 89% of FTSE 100 companies publish gender pay gap data, but
• Only 34% disclose clear action plans to close the gap.

To make meaningful progress, companies must go beyond publishing reports and:

✅ Uncover the Root Causes – Gender pay disparities often stem from hiring biases, limited sponsorship, and underrepresentation of women in leadership.

✅ Implement Transparent Pay Policies – A 2022 Glassdoor survey found that 63% of employees would not apply to a company that lacks salary transparency.

✅ Invest in Inclusive Leadership Programs – A McKinsey & LeanIn report (2023) revealed that for every 100 men promoted to manager, only 87 women are promoted, highlighting the need for structured leadership development.

The Role of Inclusive Leadership Programs in Closing the Pay Gap

One of the most effective strategies for reducing the gender pay gap is ensuring equal access to leadership opportunities. Research shows:

💡 Deloitte Insights (2023): Companies with diverse leadership teams are 25% more profitable than their less diverse counterparts.

💡 A Netwomen partner company saw:
📉 An 8% reduction in the gender pay gap for bonuses after introducing leadership development programs.
📈 A 10% increase in female promotions in one year.

Taking Action for a More Equitable Future

The gender pay gap is not just about fairness – it is a business imperative. Companies that take proactive steps to close the gap experience:

✅ Higher employee engagement
✅ Stronger retention rates
✅ Improved financial performance

At Netwomen, we help organisations take action through inclusive leadership programs that equip women with the tools, sponsorship, and networks to thrive.

📩 Ready to take action? Contact us today to explore how we can help close the gender pay gap in your organisation: hello@metwomen.co