Over three-quarters of women are proud to work in construction PR

However, women’s perceptions of construction industry culture were slightly more negative, with over three-quarters (76%) believing the sector is ‘macho’. Just over one-third (38%) believe the sector is an attractive place for women to work and only 14% of those questioned believe women and men are treated equally.

When asked about gender issues in construction, a large proportion of women (61%) reported experiencing unconscious bias. ‘Conscious’ bias was also reported, where women were subjected to jokes about ‘making the coffee’ or ‘making the sandwiches’.

According to those questioned, the construction sector has been slow to adapt to flexible working, even though over four-fifths (88%) of those who took part thought more flexible working would attract women into the industry.

The survey findings also revealed a lack of mentors and sponsors for women in construction PR. Four-fifths of those questioned did not have a mentor or a sponsor but over half (54%) would like one.

The report recommends five key areas where CAPSIG could support women working in construction PR and marketing roles:

1. Promote and encourage flexible working
2. Support the sector to promote and provide women’s staff network groups
3. Support the sector to promote a positive image
4. Launch a mentoring scheme
5. Provide a service to help members address challenges