New research has revealed the three main things women look for when starting a new job
What are the things you need to have in writing before signing a new work contract?
In a perfect world, we’d all do jobs that fulfill us mentally and emotionally, spark joy every day and pay for us to lead a comfortable lifestyle.
But, unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. The majority of us work to live and often have to make serious sacrifices to achieve some semblance of the elusive work/life balance.
A study from Dublin Bus has revealed that, despite large strides being made, women still experience apprehension when going for certain jobs due to gender stereotyping. It found that 25% did not apply for a particular role in the past because of the perception of being a ‘man’s job.’
The research was shared as part of the launch of the Dublin Bus ‘More Mná’ recruitment drive which aims to double the number of female drivers again, having already almost doubled the numbers since the female-focused recruitment drive in 2019 (97% more female drivers in February 2024 vs. August 2019).
Career non-negotiables
When it comes to things women refuse to compromise on a competitive salary came out on top at 28%. This was followed closely by flexibility at 27% and having benefits like health insurance and a pension plan (13%)
Inspiring Irish women
Respondents were also asked which Irish women they find most inspiring and unsurprisingly, Katie Taylor came out fighting with the majority of the vote (37%). Dr. Katriona O’Sullivan (academic, activist and bestselling author of ‘Poor’) and Sonya Lennon (fashion designer and founder of WorkEqual) tied in second place with 14% each.
Bridging the pay gap
Earlier this year, Dublin Bus also released the results of its 2023 Gender Pay Gap Report, which showed that the company has achieved a negative pay gap in favour of women, marking a significant step on Dublin Bus’ journey towards equality, diversity and inclusion. The Dublin Bus driver role offers a competitive salary, pension scheme, training and mentoring and paid maternity leave, along with other benefits including access to a gym, GP scheme, employee assistance scheme, and an education support scheme for going back to third level study.
Speaking about the More Mná recruitment drive, Vivienne Kavanagh, Dublin Bus Talent Development and Diversity Manager, said: “Having seen from the survey that a quarter of women have been deterred from applying for a job because it has historically been seen as a ‘man’s job’, we want to continue to be part of the change and give women the confidence to go for any job they want to. I would urge any woman who is interested to join us at one of our upcoming Open Days to find out more about bus driver career opportunities and competitive packages, and just give it a try. We’re a big family, but we still want more mná!”
Taking the leap
Open Day dates are: 2 Mar, 23 Mar, 13 Apr and 18 May. On the day, attendees will meet with current female drivers and inspectors who will share their experiences of working with Dublin Bus, and will also get the opportunity to drive a training bus with a Dublin Bus professional driving instructor, get a tour of Dublin Bus’ Central Control Centre, and be taken through the recruitment process for bus drivers and the various benefits of working for the company. For further information and to register, visit dublinbus.ie.
