Women are subject to sexism every day and everywhere. Regardless of their profession, casual sexism in the workplace is something that women have to battle every single day. In addition to being highly inappropriate, it can negatively impact the entire culture of a workplace.

Now sexism is different from harassment, everyday sexism is hardly complained about and can be both intentional and unintentional. The remarks ultimately pile onto the effect the culture of an organization and an individual’s career. This is why it is essential for managers to ensure that there is no room for sexism in their organization. Here are some ways managers can create an environment where sexism is frowned upon, while creating a more respectful culture.

1. Provide Equal Opportunity

Casual sexism often stems from the belief that women are the weaker and the more fragile gender in the battle of the sexes. Providing equal opportunities, and not undermining the abilities of a person based on gender, will create a culture where everyone is equal, and hence deserve equal opportunity.

In a society where many males come with preconceived notions about the other sex, it is imperative to battle these notions if you want an equal environment. Stamping sexism out as a leader of a business means that you are letting everyone know that you treat everyone equally, don’t believe in discrimination, and won’t stand for sexist behavior.

2. A Hiring Process Based on Merit

This is one of the toughest actions because, at the end of the day, it is challenging to fight against the inbuilt prejudices of individuals. Everyone comes with a little bias in their minds and hearts.

Such is the extent of the problems that today, government officials disguised as job applicants test the standard of merit in a company. Training interviewers and managers of the significance of keeping their notions aside will go a long way in ensuring a fairer recruitment process.

3. Take Employee Grievances Seriously

Another thing that managers and leaders of today need to develop is compassion. In the past couple of years, brave women from around the world have narrated countless stories of management being complicit in harassment and sexism.

This highlights a serious problem with most management in many organizations. If you want to create an equal atmosphere, it is imperative to take the employee grievances seriously. Complaints of harassment and inappropriate talk should not be dismissed, but investigated with the accused held accountable.

Managers need to remember that the culture of sexism has in the past survived only because strict action was not considered. Sure fighting sexism is an uphill battle, but it has to start somewhere. In addition to bringing a paradigm shift in the way we think about the other gender, companies and businesses need to think of actions to eliminate this menace.