Women in the Post-COVID Work Landscape: Navigating Hybridization, Productivity, and Sustainability





Author: Udita Bhattacharya 

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, workplaces have undergone a transformative shift, blurring the lines between professional and domestic spaces. This evolution, while offering opportunities for various professionals, notably in white-collar jobs, has also presented distinct challenges, particularly for women balancing work commitments with caregiving responsibilities.

1. Hybridization and Work Mindset

The advent of remote work has allowed individuals to safeguard job security while prioritizing work-life balance. Companies are contemplating shorter work weeks, fostering potential for increased family time and reduced time costs of travelling. Hybrid work also o­ffers the dual advantage of high productivity and increased networking opportunities (Choudhary et al 2022). However, for women, the hybrid model may introduce constant divisiveness, with attention divided between professional duties and domestic roles. The cognitive load of managing both spheres simultaneously can impact mental health, given the absence of exchanging shared experiences in a traditional office setting. In a study published in March 2023, titled Hybrid Models and Women’s Work in India: Emerging Insights by IWWAGE, 20% of the sample reported increased stress levels, with 40% of these respondents working in business and consulting as well as the social services/NGO sector.

2. Productivity and Work Hours

Productivity has become a focal point in the post-COVID workplace. Reduced work hours might encourage efficient time management, but they also pose the risk of extended working hours from home. Women, facing the looming threat of unemployment, may find themselves working longer hours without adequate legal protections. In fact, as governments cut public expenditure on services to control inflation, fewer women were employed in 2021 compared to 2020 and their jobs became more exploitative. “Women are being foisted with yet more responsibility for care even as they already worked an additional 512 billion unpaid hours in 2020”, states a report by Oxfam which studied how economics policies during the pandemic caused gender discrimination[1]. Labor laws need updating to prevent burnouts and ensure an equitable distribution of work across society.

3. Moving Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Future

Reflecting on the past two years, it is essential to decide whether to revert to old norms or move towards a more socially and ecologically sustainable society. Structural unemployment may necessitate a shift in local economies, impacting businesses reliant on office hubs.

 Building shock-resistant supply chains and offering structural flexibility in employment is crucial. Government support is imperative for informal and gig economy workers, particularly women engaged in unpaid care work. Advocating for the formalization and monetization of care work is a step towards providing social protection and economic empowerment for women.

4. Impact on Women in the Tech and E-commerce Sector

 The tech-driven solutions that emerged during the pandemic, such as e-commerce and virtual meetings, have become ingrained habits. The growth in these sectors has created opportunities for women, but it is essential to ensure inclusivity and equal representation in these fields. Focusing on skill development and access to technology is key to empowering women in the evolving digital landscape.

Conclusion

 As we navigate the complexities of the post-COVID workplace, it is crucial to prioritize the empowerment of women. By addressing the unique challenges they face in the hybridized, technologically driven work environment, we can build a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future. The lessons learned from the pandemic should guide us towards meaningful change and innovation in workplaces, fostering a society where women can thrive both professionally and personally.


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References 

[1] Abed, D., & Kelleher, F. (2022). The Assault of Austerity: How prevailing economic policy choices are a form of gender-based violence.




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