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She said, “Violating gender stereotypes,” in response to, “What unique challenges do women in leadership experience.” I asked the question at the beginning of a presentation for a Woman’s Business Consortium.
Assertiveness:
When a woman is assertive she’s bossy and resented. She’s bitchy. But, when a man is assertive he’s powerful and admired. He gets things done.
Manly:
Men can be men but women must be both.
If a woman wants to get ahead in a man’s world, there’s pressure to be like a man. To get ahead you must conform. A high-level woman in a large corporation told me she was encouraged to wear fewer dresses and more pant suits.
Catch 22:
Men are liked because they are competent. Women, on the other hand, are either perceived as competent or liked. (Catalyst research) In our culture, it’s easier to like a woman who is less competent.
Is there an up side?
Strengths:
Women are different from men. Saying they aren’t diminishes both. What’s the point of diversity if everyone’s the same?
Research shows women are better than men when it comes to:
- Affirmation.
- Collaboration.
- Coaching.
From: It’s Harder for Women.
How to be an assertive female leader:
- Ask male leaders to publicly affirm your leadership.
- Remain pleasant and optimistic while dealing with tough issues.
- Share your success by focusing on results.
- Talk about results in terms of the team.
- Lift yourself and others at the same time. Bring others with you.
- Run toward not away. Don’t allow frustration with the past to prevent you from moving forward.
- Choose private over public. If you feel disrespected by a male colleague, deal with it privately.
Bonus: Be assertive but don’t attack.
On 9/27/2013, I asked Leadership Freak Facebook fans to answer: “What unique challenges do female leaders face?”
What unique challenges do women in leadership face?
How can women be assertive in leadership?
