Women in Construction: Retention of Professional Female Talent within the Construction Industry in South Africa

Abstract

Professional women in the construction industry, still face challenges that hinder their long term stay in the industry, despite necessary knowledge, skills, competencies, training, and work experience. Most studies in this area look at identified barriers and challenges of professional females within the industry, with little or no specific suggestions for female talent retention. Recruiting and retaining workers from underrepresented groups remains a challenge for the construction industry. This research seeks to identify organizational factors that influence women's decisions to remain in the construction industry and to devise a strategy for increasing human capital in this industry. To achieve the objectives of the research, this study utilized a mixed methods approach. Interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams with 15 leading women working within the various roles in the Built Environment & this data was analyzed via content analysis. And a total of 180 structured questionnaires were distributed to construction professionals. A total of 148 completed questionnaires were returned, representing 82% return rate. SPSS was used to analyze quantitative date data, which included tests such as frequencies, percentages, mean score, and factor analysis. The study's findings indicate that career development variables, such as management policy and organizational policy, together with human resources considerations, play a significant role in effectively promoting the retention of female professional talent within the construction industry in South Africa. While discrimination and patriarchy in society negatively affect employee retention. This study adds to the understanding of HR professionals, line managers, and organizational leaders about retention challenges and effective retention strategies for top and middle-level managers in the construction industry. While the Female Talent Retention framework (FTRF) addresses the context of South Africa, it can be used as a theoretical foundation for future research on women's retention in the construction industry. The study also suggests policymakers in the construction industry take note of its findings and recommendations. South Africa is a developing country that requires long-term sustainable in both technology and human resources.