From a very young age, we knowingly and unknowingly tell children who they are and what they’re capable of. For example, when a little boy asserts himself he is called a “leader.” Compare that to a little girl doing the same; she is labeled with a much less attractive trait: “bossy.” These contracting adjectives placed on children set them up for different lives due to their gender. When a little boy falls down we quickly rub his wound and encourage him to get back up but when the same happens to a little girl she is coddled because we view her as delicate. This reaction from society becomes instilled in our children and is carried over to their careers, some many years later. Society has saved its top positions like president and CEO for men, but it is statistically proven that women make as good of leaders if not better than men. Recently, Forbes released an article supporting the idea that men are better CEOs than women based on the idea that “men are generally perceived as better leaders” and because “the same behavior is interpreted differently depending upon whether the behavior comes from men or women.” Arguments like these are easily disputable because these ideologies exist solely due to historical biases on the basis of sex.
As society changes and shifts toward equality, these “perceived” ideas will change accordingly. We are society, our thoughts and beliefs shape society; in order to change current biases and move forward, men and women need to work as a team to uplift one another regardless of gender. Awareness of this inequality is the first step in eliminating the bias and giving women a fair shot. In a survey of 7,280 leaders it was discovered that “women bosses were more democratic and easier to communicate with, allowing their employees to participate in decision-making and encouraging feedback on management policies.” Women still feel an enormous constant pressure to work harder to be noticed by their higher-ups. We aren’t in the 1950s anymore; let’s be a part of our current progressive society and hire leaders based on their skills and accomplishments.
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About Our Author
Erica Sobecki is a recent graduate of Baruch College in NYC. She spends her free time looking for a full-time job, volunteering or reading and writing poetry. You can often find Erica at the gym, on the beach or traveling and experiencing different cultures.
