Supporting women's retention & advancement: 12 key questions your organization needs to ask.

1. Do you track the percentage of women entering your organization and the percentage of women in leadership positions?

2. Is women's retention and development a component of your strategic initiatives?

3. Are women on key committees and task forces in your organization?

4. Do you have policies that support work work-life balance?

5. Do you offer individualized flexible work arrangements to your employees?

6. Do you offer opportunities for advancement for individuals using flexible work schedules?

7. Do you provide leadership and management skill development to all levels of employees in your organization?

8. Do you provide training on gender differences?

9. Do you provide alternative work options for employees on family leave, such as laptops and opportunities to participate in training and CPE activities?

10. Do your employees have adequate technology support (PDAs, laptops, cell phones, etc.) to allow for flexibility?

11. Do you encourage and support internal mentoring?

12. What options do employees have in creating alternative career choices at various stages of their family and life development?

--AICPA Work Life and Women's initiative Executive Committee