So what are women-only issues in the workplace?

For most issues folks name, someone will say "But that also applies to..." and they're often correct:

• Sexual harassment (yes, it still happens)
• Glass ceiling
• Not being listened to
• Tokenism
• Single parent balancing act
• Pay equity
• Lack of visible role models at senior levels. etc.

Some days it appears the only women's issue is:

• Considered a bitch if acting forcefully

While the issues may not only apply to women, it's certainly women who carry the larger burden of them. Discussions around these ongoing struggles need to acknowledge that women most often bear the cost/ suffer the consequences. However, that doesn't mean potential solutions should only be available to women.

Women's issues are not just gender-based issues.; women's issues in the workplace can cross many diversity lines. So any good ideas that help women should be open to everyone. Why not start with women though? Why not use women as the pilot/ test group for solutions which can, if successful, be made available to everyone? This would allow the workplace to acknowledge the largest working group they have, the issues and then share the success.

Wouldn't it be terrific if women could sponsor solutions for everyone such as flexible work hours, career coaching, daycare options and mentoring groups? Build a place where women love to work and everyone might enjoy working there.