Each March, Women’s History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of the women who shaped — and continue to shape — our country.
Many companies have made strides toward gender equity. Paycom, for example, was named a Best Company for Women by Comparably in 2022. But even companies recognized for their progress know championing equality, inclusion and representation has to be deliberate and consistent.
In other words, women must be an integral part of an organization’s culture, not just acknowledged once a year.
As we explore the theme of this year’s Women’s History Month, think about the women who have made a difference in your life. Consider what may have held them back and how we can work to minimize those systemic forces today.
Celebrating women storytellers
The National Women’s History Alliance’s (NWHA) women’s history theme for 2023 is, “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.” After all, we reflect our experiences. Every story we read or hear enriches our lives and contributes to who we are.
No healthy society is complete without storytelling. And women are among the world’s most influential storytellers through:
- film
- television
- podcasts
- literature
- journalism
- and more
According to the NWHA, “Women’s stories, and the larger human story, expand our understanding and strengthen our connections with each other.”
This truth doesn’t relate solely to art; it rings true in business, too. Women’s contributions, leadership and perspective help companies:
- adapt
- operate with empathy
- serve their communities and the world
At Paycom, women are inseparable from what we do, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need representation. That’s one reason behind the recent formation of an Employee Resource Group (ERG) for women.
Meet the Women’s ERG
For this year’s Women’s History Month, we asked Melia, a Paycom employee, to tell her story.
Melia’s Paycom career began in summer 2021. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in business marketing. Her experience there inspired her to pursue a role in the tech industry, and she’s been focused on growth ever since.
Melia is a senior product manager and proud member of the Women’s ERG. She values listening, supporting other women and building friendships in the workplace.
“As a parent of two girls, it’s super important for me to show young women that careers in tech are interesting, fulfilling and achievable for all genders,” she said.
Melia believes highlighting all working women is crucial to help empower the next generation. We asked Melia what this means to her and why celebrating women’s history is bigger than March:
Why is it important to celebrate Women’s History Month?
It is super important for us to highlight accomplishments, struggles and experiences of women to encourage better understanding. The history of where we started, how far we have come and what is still left to do gives a visual to the movement and encourages women.
What makes you “Paycom Proud”?
I am proud of how women represent technology here at Paycom. Women here are encouraged to exceed at every level. I love the thrill of the industry and paving the way for the next generation of women. After all, tech isn’t just for the boys. Paycom believes in diversity and inclusion. If you can do the job, you can excel here.
How can we continue to learn about women’s history throughout the year?
The best way is to listen to the thoughts and views of women here at Paycom and act when needed. We bring different perspectives and skills that create a strong, successful company. Having an ERG that meets year-round keeps our history alive.
About Paycom
Paycom proudly employs women in every area of the company. Women account for over half (51%) of all employees — including first- and mid-level managers.* And over 1 in 3 (37%) executive and senior-level leaders are women.
Learn more about Paycom’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts here.
*The information above summarizes our workforce demographics as of December 31, 2022. The demographic workforce data, gender and job categories, aligns with the EEO-1 Component 1 data collection reporting requirements outlined by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
