Beijing, March 9 (IANS): Women's priorities have changed with independence, positiveness and respect replacing the urge to find a life partner, according to a survey in China.

Female respondents gave the highest rating, 4.53 out of 5, to an independent life. This was followed by happiness, according to the survey conducted by zhaopin.com, a job-seeking portal, ahead of Tuesday's International Women's Day.

The results of the survey indicate that modern women are unwilling to pander to the expectations of others.

The ability to take care of themselves and their family, and to be respected received the same rating, and tied in third, while marrying a good man scored the least of 3.69, according to the answers of 15,876 respondents.

"Having a career of my own and financial independence is crucial," said Wang Tian, 28, who works for a state-owned enterprise in Beijing.

According to the survey, career choices were primarily influenced by the working environment and the salary, while it was made clear that there had to be a work-life balance, above all the feeling of security and stability.

"The best scenario would be getting recognition for my work and being offered promotions and pay hike, which does not come at the expense of my family," said Wang who is expecting a baby soon.

Majority of women said they had zero tolerance for unspoken career rules like gender discrimination, nepotism and rent-seeking.

In addition, 65.6 percent of respondents said their companies failed to offer benefits for female employees, while 18.4 percent said they had not paid attention.

Wang suggested that all the companies should consider flexible work hours for female employees, the setting up of mother-and-baby rooms, and menstruation leaves.

"At the end of the day, gender discrimination needs to end. Give female employees the promotion and career development they deserve," Wang said.