Empowerment, Labor, and AI in Mexico and Beyond

From the urgent call to address gender disparities and foster women's entrepreneurship to the escalating challenges of forced labor and talent shortages, organizations are navigating a complex terrain ripe with both opportunities and obstacles. As reports from institutions like the World Bank, ILO, and IBM underscore the critical need for strategic action, the imperative for inclusive workplaces and psychological safety emerges as a common thread weaving through these narratives. 

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Mexico 

Women Entrepreneurs: Sparking Economic Growth

The Women Economic Forum in Mexico highlights the need for tailored support and strategic investment in women's entrepreneurship to address gender disparities. Despite comprising one-third of entrepreneurs, women encounter obstacles accessing financial investments due to systemic biases. Overcoming challenges like impostor syndrome and promoting confidence-building initiatives are emphasized. Strategic investment in women-led ventures is advocated to stimulate economic growth and create an inclusive business environment. Achieving gender parity in entrepreneurship could boost global GDP by 3% to 6%, agree experts. The forum promotes collaborative efforts to capitalize on this potential and advocates gradual growth strategies for building resilient ventures.

GPTW Unveils Best Places for Women in Mexico 2024

Great Place To Work released its 2024 list of “The Best Places to Work™ in Mexico for Women,” honoring 100 organizations committed to inclusivity and trust. Notable recipients include Polaris Sales México and TMF GROUP MEXICO. Using its For ALL algorithm, Great Place To Work prioritizes satisfaction for all employees, with recognized organizations boasting a 91% favorability rating. 93% of women express a desire for long-term careers, reflecting high satisfaction and loyalty. The focus on dignity, respect and physical safety fosters innovation and productivity. Psychological safety encourages open communication and agility, as noted by Julian Lute, Consultor, Great Place To Work.

International 

ILO: Forced Labor Generated US$64 Billion in Profits

An ILO report exposes a 37% surge in illegal profits from forced labor, totaling US$64 billion, with each victim generating nearly US$10,000 for traffickers. The informal economy sees an alarming US$236 billion annually from forced labor, predominantly driven by commercial sexual exploitation. Europe and Central Asia lead in illegal profits. Urgent international action is urged to combat forced labor, uphold human dignity, and fairness. Recommendations include investment in enforcement measures and a comprehensive approach addressing root causes and victim safeguarding. The report calls for concerted efforts to end this egregious violation of human rights.

Lost Growth: The Cost of Gender Inequality

The World Bank's report reveals that no country provides women with equal opportunities in the workforce compared to men. It stresses the urgent need to address childcare and safety policies, as they significantly impact women's employment. Legal protections for women lag behind those intended for men, with women having only 64% of the legal protections afforded to men. Implementing workplace equality laws remains a challenge, with less than 40% of countries establishing comprehensive systems. Childcare and safety issues hinder women's employment, leading to decreased participation rates and earnings for mothers. Closing the childcare gap could double the global growth rate over the next decade, highlighting the critical need for reforms.

Talent Shortage Could Hinder AI Implementation in LATAM

IBM's Global AI Adoption Index 2023 report shows increasing AI adoption in Latin America, but a skill gap hinders full utilization. Educational reforms are needed in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics. In Mexico, 68% of employers struggle to find tech specialists. NTT Data and MIT Technology Review predict AI-related talent shortages. IBM urges educational updates in Mexico for job creation and higher incomes.

Women AI Professionals Receive Less Recognition

Zeki Research's Women in AI 2024 report reveals a 30% visibility gap for top female AI professionals compared to men, hindering their advancement. Despite increasing female AI talent, only 22% hold roles in major AI labs, with many opting for smaller companies. However, some firms like Intuit and Bayer exceed industry hiring averages for women. Healthcare and consultancy sectors excel in attracting female AI talent. The report underscores the need for inclusive practices to harness the full potential of AI and emphasizes the importance of women's participation for technological innovation and progress.

Industry Development 

Talent Tango: Navigating the Push and Pull of Acquisition

In today's competitive talent landscape, a blend of proactive 'push' tactics (like direct sourcing on platforms like LinkedIn) and engaging 'pull' strategies (showcasing employer brand, culture, and values) is essential for effective talent acquisition. ManpowerGroup reports 75% of global employers struggle to fill roles, with similar challenges in the United States and Mexico. Demographic shifts and skill mismatches exacerbate the talent shortage. Lack of accessible childcare further depletes the talent pool, especially among parents. 

Employees Seek More Support Amid Crisis: MetLife

MetLife reports a surge in employee demand for more support amid personal and financial hardships, with 92% seeking consistent care. Employees feeling cared for are more likely to stay with their company and show increased productivity. Todd Katz, Executive Vice President, MetLife, urges employers to acknowledge challenges and offer expanded support. These findings align with industry trends emphasizing the importance of mental health benefits and addressing social issues to enhance appeal to potential hires.

Cultivating Workplace Safety Demands Inclusive Strategies

Customized approaches for diversity, equity and inclusion are vital for workplace psychological safety, according to McLean & Co. Neglect can lead to decreased engagement, while prioritizing it boosts motivation and retention. Psychological safety means feeling secure to express ideas without fear of punishment, fostering mutual understanding. Elysca Fernandes ,Director of HR Research and Advisory Services, McLean & Co. , highlights the need for tailored approaches, especially in diversity discussions.