Can women lead?
Are there any STYLE differences between M&W ?
Are there any differences in EFFECTIVENESS between M&W ?

Overview

• Style & Effectiveness Differences
• The Gender Gap in Leadership
• Explanations for the Gap
• Approaches to Promoting Women in Leadership

Style Differences

• The mainstream press
• Academic research:
• Relationship & Task orientation
• Democratic & Autocratic styles
• Masculine behavior

Effectiveness Differences

• Transformational leadership
• Overall, small differences in effectiveness
• Women are more effective in feminine roles
• Women are less effective in masculine roles

The Leadership Labyrinth

• 3 Explanations:
• Investment in Human Capital
• Gender Differences
• Prejudice and Discrimination

Investment in Human Capital

• Less investment in Education & Training 
• Less Work Experience & Continuity
• Work-Home Conflicts
• Fewer Developmental Opportunities
• The Type of Positions Women Occupy

Gender Differences

• Differences in Leadership Style
• Differences in Leadership Effectiveness
• Commitment to Employment
• Motivation to Lead
• Women are Less Likely to Self-Promote & Negotiate

Prejudice and Discrimination

• Gender Stereotypes 
• Women take care, Men take charge
• Agentic vs. Communal characteristics
• Role Congruity Theory
• Women's Responses

Navigating the Labyrinth

• Organizational Level
• Societal Level
• Individual Level
• Interersonal Level

Untitled Slide