Corporate America has been increasingly more inclusive, thanks to many years of social justice movements and other evolving beliefs of equality. Although still dominated by men, there is an increasing presence of women because of their unique skills and abilities. According to well-known female entrepreneur, Chrissy Weems, there are many things that women can contribute to the corporate world:
- Their unique attention to detail – women are designed to pay more attention to details that people may overlook. They pay attention to slight changes, can predict unusual patterns, and take note of small things in small increments which make them valuable to high-profile and sensitive decision-making processes.
- Their nurturing nature – women are also known to be more sensitive to the needs of others. Corporate companies who want a touch of a nurturing culture are inclined to hire women.
- Their ability to communicate openly – women are open with their thoughts and feelings and would often show honesty in issues that matter to them. Open communication is important for corporate growth as well.
Despite women’s special strengths, there are some discriminations that still exist. One of the questions begging to be asked is, are women held to the same standard in corporate America? Do women experience the same verdict on issues that employees are facing in the workplace? Or are they unjustly being given a different burden?
Chrissy Weems gives us her insight on this issue, and how we can resolve it.
Are Women Held To The Same Standard In Corporate America?
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Women are held to a higher ethical standard than men
It is no surprise that the criminal system is still dominated by men. When we see aggression, serial killers, rapists, and murderers, we often have the notion that they are men who are displaying a distorted sense of power. However, little do we realize that this mindset also has an effect on women. According to a recent study, women are held to a higher ethical standard than men in the workplace.
Women are expected to be more honest, open, and have integrity in all aspects of their career life. Men, however, have more leeway compared to women because of the stereotypes that people have placed on gender differences. Some people would justify, “Boys will be boys,” and therefore women should be the more “moral” gender.
However, this should not be so. Although it is fine that women are held to a good ethical standard, the same standard should be given for men. Saying that a particular gender could not control their behavior is to say that these behaviors are excusable. Gender equality also means equality in the workplace.
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Some companies are not ready for female leadership
Another issue that women in corporate America seem to face is the issue that most of these companies are not comfortable with the idea of having a female leader. By tradition, men are the supposed leaders, and women are the ones in the background, giving support to the men in their lives.
In the corporate world, these traditional views still take place. However, this is another proof that women are being held to a higher standard–they must work, and work hard to gain the position they desire. In fact, many of them need to work harder than their male counterparts.
Women in the Workplace: Final Notes
If we truly uphold gender equality, it should be said that gender does not have to be a factor in considering a person’s skills, talents, and abilities in the workplace.
Truly, women are also wonderful, contributing individuals in the workplace. One does not have to be confined with the norms to make decisions about who to hire or not. Employees should be recognized based on the value they offer, and not because of their gender.