We live in an age that celebrates diversity. Yet, gender stereotypes and biases still have a significant impact on a woman’s success—especially as it pertains to women in business or leadership positions.
Whether leading their own business or in the boardroom, women bring different perspectives and experiences to the table. They approach problem-solving differently than their male counterparts, often leading to more sustainable solutions. Women are also strongly empathetic and have high levels of emotional intelligence, helping to build trust and loyalty while emphasizing a culture of mutual respect.
A 2023 McKinsey report showed that entry-level positions skew 48% female, but as the responsibility level rises, that number shrinks. Women currently hold only one in four senior and executive positions, which needs to increase if we are to encourage other women to aspire to these roles.
Women in leadership can also become excellent role models for other women, demonstrating that there is a place for them if they want it. The stereotypical image of a woman at work is vastly different from what it was, even two decades ago, and yet we still face gender bias, largely because the c-suite is still male-dominated.
And it’s not about tokenization. Simply having a mandated balance of women on any given team isn’t the key to success—although it could be more meaningful if attitudes were to change. When we focus on valuing individuality and consciously try to avoid stereotypes, we invite unique viewpoints, enable innovation, improve relationships, and build a foundation from which future female leaders develop.
Whether as an entrepreneur, team member, corporate executive, or mentor, women bring remarkable benefits to the table. And yet, they are still subject to micro-aggressions in the workplace, bias (unconscious and otherwise) from their superiors and peers, and have fewer opportunities to level up in their careers.
Empowering diverse perspectives doesn’t require a lot of effort. It’s about seeing past the labels to the individual and being receptive to what they have to offer. If we listen closely and keep an open mind, the answers are their own evidence.