Western Australia’s marketing sector still faces sexism, harassment and marginalisation, according to research by Edith Cowan University (ECU).
As many as one-in-four marketers have experienced discrimination in the workplace.
The report, on behalf of the Western Australian Marketing Association, surveyed 573 in the WA marketing sector and found that three-in-ten agency workers feel they are not treated with respect in their workplace.
But formal reporting on discrimination is low, with only 42% of participants formally reporting their experiences.
The report also dealt with the issue of exclusion, finding that 61% of male respondents felt excluded, compare with 38% of female respondents.
Some groups, such as heterosexuals and those without disabilities, expressed lower levels of inclusion, while Anglo and English-speaking respondents reported the highest levels of feeling excluded.
ECU lecturer Melissa Fong-Emmerson and senior lecturer Dr Ashlee Morgan found that gender plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Eight out of ten (83%) of female respondents said a diverse and inclusive workplace is important, compared to only 68% of males who share the same sentiment.
While non-binary/gender diverse respondents represent less than 1% of the sample population, they unanimously agree on the significance of DEI.
Age is another factor influencing perceptions, findings show 88% of under 35s agreeing that DEI at work as crucial, this figure reduces to 67% among 35- to 44-year-olds.
Nine out of ten (92%) of respondents over 45 years affirm the importance of DEI; however, it is important to note that they make up roughly 1 in 10 of the sample population.
The study's findings uncovered sobering statistics and firsthand experiences around discrimination and lack of inclusion, providing a data-driven foundation for the industry to take meaningful action, Fong-Emmerson said.
“By amplifying the voices of the participants on these critical issues, the study provides a platform for the marketing community to prioritise commitment to diversity and inclusion," Fong-Emmerson said.
"This can drive tangible improvements and actions, moving towards a genuine, long-term authentic commitment to inclusive workplaces.
"We hope this will ignite meaningful lasting change in the marketing industry.”
Improving diversity and inclusion in the workplace
The report makes seven key recommendations for organisations to improve diversity and inclusion in their workplace, they are:
- Improved experience in agencies
- Strengthening social connections
- Improving transparency in career opportunities
- Adopting inclusive recruitment strategies
Morgan noted that the recommendations made in the report were intended to facilitate meaningful action across the WA marketing sector.
“A diverse workplace does not equate to an inclusive workplace," Morgan said.
"It is well overdue for the industry to reflect our diverse society and ensure that everyone feels included at work."
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