The challenge of recruiting and retaining women in today’s competitive market is more complex than simply posting job openings. Women seek out workplaces where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow, which requires companies to adopt intentional, strategic approaches. At Females in Food (FIF), we help organizations in the food and beverage (F&B) industry attract and retain talented women through initiatives designed to create an inclusive, opportunity-rich environment.

Drawing on research and proven tactics, we’ve outlined key strategies for companies aiming to become employers of choice for women—and how a partnership with Females in Food can bring these strategies to life.

The Problem: Why Traditional Recruiting Falls Short

Women today are actively evaluating potential employers based on a few essential criteria. They’re looking for evidence of a company’s commitment to gender diversity and are highly attuned to the opportunities for growth and leadership within an organization. As a Harvard Business Review article notes, “Women are much more likely to apply for jobs where they can see other women in leadership and where they know their unique skills and perspectives will be valued” (HBR, 2019). Without strategic recruitment channels, leadership development programs, and flexible benefits, companies risk losing out on highly skilled women who value these elements in a potential employer.

The Solution: Proven Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Women

Here’s how companies can tackle these challenges through intentional approaches, many of which Females in Food can help you implement.

1. Targeted Recruitment Channels to Reach the Right Candidates

To successfully attract female candidates, companies must go beyond generic recruitment channels. A Harvard Business Review study found that women are less likely to apply to roles unless they feel confident about meeting all the qualifications (HBR, 2019). Thus, effective recruitment of women means reaching them directly, creating job descriptions that reflect a commitment to growth, and positioning the company as inclusive and supportive.

Solution with FIF: By partnering with Females in Food, companies gain access to our exclusive job board, where corporate profiles are tailored to highlight opportunities that resonate with women in the F&B industry. Our expansive reach—over 100,000 women through social media posts and 4,000 email subscribers—ensures job postings reach qualified women who are motivated to advance their careers. Custom thought leadership articles on our platform further enhance job visibility, positioning your company as one that genuinely values female talent.

2. Showcasing Female Leadership to Inspire and Attract Talent

Female candidates often look for companies where they can envision themselves in leadership roles. Studies show that women are more likely to apply to companies that feature visible female role models and make diversity in leadership a priority (HBR, 2019). Showcasing women in key roles serves as a powerful recruitment tool and fosters a workplace culture where women feel valued and supported.

Solution with FIF: Our social media channels, with over 5,000 engaged followers, offer a platform to showcase the achievements of female leaders within your organization. Additionally, Females in Food hosts virtual community events featuring senior executives from our partner organizations. These events give women direct access to industry leaders, allowing them to gain insights and ask questions, creating an environment where they can connect with successful women who have advanced in the F&B industry. By sharing these stories and offering access to female role models, FIF helps candidates see a clear pathway for growth within your company.

3. Promoting Benefits That Matter: Flexibility, Wellness, and Career Development

Today’s female professionals prioritize benefits that support both personal and professional well-being. Harvard Business Review highlights that companies can increase retention by offering benefits such as flexible work options, parental leave, and access to professional development resources (HBR, 2019). Such benefits not only attract talent but also help women stay and thrive within an organization.

Solution with FIF: It is through our custom corporate profile pages that we feature each corporation’s benefits and culture, ensuring they resonate with women in the workforce. These profiles, along with custom thought leadership articles, allow companies to emphasize their commitment to flexibility, mental health, and career development. By sharing this information with our extensive network, we help position your brand as one that champions an inclusive and supportive work culture, drawing in women who value these benefits.

Why Partnering with Females in Food is a Strategic Advantage

Females in Food has proven to be a valuable ally for companies striving to recruit more women in the F&B industry. Tetra Pak, one of our partners, has experienced firsthand the benefits of this alignment. Angela Peterson, Communications Manager at Tetra Pak, shares her experience:

“In less than a year with Females in Food, we’ve already witnessed benefits associated with our involvement. We’ve connected with qualified candidates through the organization’s events and branding efforts, we’ve accessed resources to support our women’s ERG, and the learning & development offerings have been valuable for our employees.”

With our extensive reach, specialized job board, and tailored resources, partnering with Females in Food provides companies with a strategic advantage in today’s competitive hiring landscape. Together, we can elevate your brand’s visibility among talented women and help build a workplace where they feel supported, inspired, and empowered.

Recruiting and retaining women is about more than meeting diversity goals; it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity that drives profitability, innovation, and sustainability. Through FIF’s expertise and resources, your company can become that workplace—one where women not only stay but thrive, contributing to your organization’s long-term success. Let’s take the next step together in building an environment where talented women can make a meaningful impact.

Interested in partnering with Females in Food? Contact us to learn more about how we can support your recruitment and retention goals.