Flexible working is paramount as women challenge the traditional ‘nine to five’ in PR

What do women in PR want? And when do they want it (now!). According to a survey by networking organisation Women in PR of its members, being able to set their own working hours is of paramount concern. Mary Whenman, president of Women in PR, says: "It's interesting to see that 14% of respondents are interested in setting up their own agency, 28% are interested in going freelance and 30% want to know more about managing flexible working. This demonstrates that work patterns are changing and the traditional ‘nine to five’ is being challenged."

Good news for the industry is that it looks like there should be more senior women holding positions of power in PR. This will help address the current gender pay gap in PR, where despite the fact that women dominate the industry, comparatively few earn the top salaries (as shown by The Works PR salary survey)

Mary Whenman says:  "A significant number of our members (80%) are in senior leadership roles working as an MD, CEO, partner, communications director or head. However it's good to see a growing number (20%) of mid-career women joining Women in PR as they will be the future leaders of our industry."

Backgound

In March 2015, Women in PR carried out an on-line survey of its members and supporters to find out more about their profile, what they think Women in PR should stand for, what they would like from their membership and what types of events they value.