Closing the gap between men and women at work.

AT the end of the month, most of us are counting down the hours until the pay cheques hit our bank accounts.

Even when the money does finally arrive, one look at the wage slip and we're dreaming of a bigger salary.

However, for some women, a pay rise shouldn't be just something to fantasise over when taking a tea break.

Last year, the Office of National Statistics carried out their Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, with alarming results. The findings showed that women working full-time earn on average 17.1 per cent less per hour than men.

For this reason, on October 30, The Fawcett Society are asking UK residents to recognise Equal Pay Day.

Established in 1866, the Society want to close the inequality gap between men and women.

It's not just pay issues which cause discomfort in the workplace.

Another problem The Fawcett Society highlight is the repercussions women face when they become pregnant.

Citing the 2005 Equal Opportunities Commission report, Greater Expectations, they say 30,000 women a year lose their jobs because they become pregnant.

The statistics don't come as a surprise to Mireille Guiliano, 63. The French former President and CEO of Clicquot Inc is now a full-time author and motivational speaker. She explains: "While it may be easier than it was for people of my generation, it's still very difficult. I've witnessed situations where employers have said 'she's going to get married and have children' or 'she's not going to want to travel'.

She continues: "The reverse can also happen where women think that their career should come second to the rest of their life and they don't want to get promotions. I've had friends who've turned down promotions because they say they'll have to travel more and won't get to see their spouse or children at night."

In Guiliano's new book, the business expert gives her tips for gaining a good work-life balance - even when the odds aren't stacked in your favour.

She says: "Women have to work harder than men in areas such as dress. We react to a woman who isn't dressed the part but we'd never say anything about a man. However, often when women get to where they want to be, they forget what they went through to get there and have no time for others.

"We are becoming the majority in the workplace so we should help each other, not hurt each other."

Women, Work, and the Art of Savoir Faire: Business Sense and Sensibility by Mireille Guiliano, pounds 12.99, published by Simon & Schuster Ltd.