The gender wage gap has been an issue in the workforce for a long time. It affects most industries including project management. Over the years, with the help of the many DEI programs, a lot of progress has been made in closing the wage gap. However, women in project management still face obstacles around receiving equal pay.  

A recent survey by the Project Management Institute revealed that the average salary for women in project management is around $106,000– which is significantly less than men in project management earning on average, $120,000. This difference impacts women on a few levels including long-term financial stability. 

Below are 3 easy ways to help shrink the gender wage gap and promote equal pay for men and women in every industry around the world. 

Pay transparency among men and women in project management roles 

Although salary is such a secretive matter to many individuals, it contributes to the wage gap between men and women. It’s important that we all do our best to disclose our salaries to help shrink the wage gap, even if it’s an anonymous post on a platform like Glassdoor. On Glassdoor, individuals have the opportunity to post their salary, the company they work(ed) for, and their role. 

Earn project management certifications

Another way to help shrink the gender wage gap is to earn project management certificates. Studies show that women are less likely to hold certificates than men in their respective industries. Studies also show that individuals who hold certifications earn more than those without. That’s low-hanging fruit that women can grab to help shrink the wage gap.

The Project Management Institute is the issuer for the top project certifications. Their certifications provide specific industry knowledge required to earn a certificate resulting in receiving a higher salary. 

Do the research on your role and ask for what you want

Sounds scary but sometimes just asking for what you want is all it takes. Whenever you apply to a new role, be sure to research the average salary for that role. Of course, you should consider your level of education and experience but ask for the average at the minimum. However, if you have the experience and credentials for the role, ask for exactly what you want.

The first time I asked for what I wanted, to my surprise– I was given exactly that. Which is much different than how I’ve operated in the past, I was more accepting of whatever an employer decided to give me without researching or doing any negotiations. 

Ultimately, equal pay for men and women in project management and in all industries only promotes a more prosperous future and everyone including men can benefit from it. 

By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae