Voice of Women 2017
A Global Survey on Women at the Workplace
Conducted by HRhelpdesk.in
Purpose of the Report
The Voice of Women 2017 report is a powerful and data-driven narrative that captures the lived experiences of women in workplaces across the globe. With responses from 3232 women across 39 countries, this survey sheds light on the prevalence of hostile behaviors, the effectiveness of justice systems, and the cultural challenges women face in their professional lives.
This report is a call to action for organizations, leaders, and policymakers to create safer, more respectful, and equitable workplaces for women.
Survey Scope & Methodology
- Survey Period: December 24, 2016 – February 5, 2017
- Participants: 3232 women
- Global Reach: 39 countries (India, Africa, Asia, Americas, Europe, Oceania)
- Survey Format: 14-question online survey (with paper/telephonic options for accessibility)
- Participant Types: 87% employees, 13% business owners
Key Findings
Hostile Behaviors
- 86% experienced bullying & harassment
- 58% faced gender-based discrimination
- 56% were targets of sexual harassment
- 35% experienced all three hostile behaviors
- 67% faced these behaviors within the first 5 years of their career
Justice System & Reporting
- Only 22% received justice after reporting
- 37% reported but did not receive resolution
- 41% chose not to report at all
- Just 1% filed complaints with police or government agencies
- 78% of women lack trust in organizational justice systems
Offenders
- 91% of hostile behaviors were perpetrated by male seniors
- 29% of women reported being harassed by other women
- Hostile behaviors were also experienced during job interviews, client meetings, and public forums
Behavioral Insights
Bullying & Harassment
- 60% were shouted at or humiliated
- 50% faced privacy-invading questions
- 36% were sidelined or denied promotions
- 26% were falsely labeled as underperformers
Discrimination
- 95% of women entrepreneurs were mocked for business competence
- 48% faced career disadvantages due to marital/maternity status
- 45% were denied opportunities based on gender
Sexual Harassment
- 54% experienced flirtatious behavior
- 31% received comments on physical appearance
- 21% were exposed to sexually explicit material
- 17% faced inappropriate touching
How Women Reacted
Avoidance (79%)
- 31% accepted the behavior
- 24% hoped time would heal
- 42% stayed away from the perpetrator
- 17% quit their job
Confrontation (52%)
- 29% confronted the perpetrator
- 18% reported to leadership
- 14% reported to HR
- 12% filed formal complaints
- 1% approached legal authorities
What Women Recommend
- 85% recommend confrontation as the best approach
- 55% suggest confronting the perpetrator directly
- 40% advise staying away
- 36% recommend reporting to leadership
- 28% suggest creating a mentor network
- 27% support filing formal complaints
Suggested Action Plan
Before Hostile Behavior
- Join women’s support groups
- Display visible deterrents (e.g., “I Support” signs)
- Build awareness and solidarity
During Hostile Behavior
- Prioritize personal safety
- Speak up in public settings
- Document incidents thoroughly
After Hostile Behavior
- Report immediately and widely
- Speak to colleagues, mentors, and support groups
- Avoid resignation—let the company take formal action
Conclusion
The Voice of Women 2017 report is a wake-up call for organizations to move beyond token diversity policies and build truly inclusive cultures. Hostile behaviors are not isolated incidents they are systemic and cultural. Women are ready to speak up. The question is: Are organizations ready to listen and act?