July 1, 2023
Dina Al Mahdy

Historically, leadership traits such as confidence and assertiveness have been traditionally associated with men. Women who exhibit these same traits often encounter negative stereotypes, creating a double standard that persists today.

Why does this phenomenon continue to persist well into the 21^st century? The roots of this phenomenon can be traced back to traditional gender roles, in which men held ambitious positions like presidents, scientists, engineers or CEOs while women stayed at home. These outdated images contribute to the status quo that males are better suited for leadership roles than females.

In the workplace, disparaging connotations of women in leadership positions intimidate future female leaders. These women try to avoid being typecast as “controlling” or “bossy” – a caricature of the “horrible female boss.” 

To overcome these stereotypes, aspiring female leaders must work to change the language used to describe both men and women in leadership roles. They must fight the historically male dominated image of leadership by demonstrating their competence and effectiveness as leaders, challenging the status quo through their actions and words and slowly changing the language used to describe men and women. In doing so, they can pave the way for more equitable representation of women in positions of power.

1. Subtle power is not weakness. 

As society continues to adjust itself to women in positions of authority, it is necessary to reevaluate our understanding of power. Traditional ideas of power, which often involve aggressive and forceful behavior, may need to be challenged. Instead, we should prioritize collaboration and teamwork.

Women often tend to exercise power in less showy and more subtle manner, stemming from a desire to build a consensus. However, this does not mean that they are incapable leaders or lack strength. Recognizing that the difference in wielding power does not make women weak or ineffective leaders is an important step towards progress. 

2. Showing emotion is not bad thing.

There is a pervasive stereotype that women are too emotional to be in power. It is a common stereotype that women are unstable because of their “hormones” or prone to changing their mind constantly because of their fleeting nature. However, the truth is that women can be just as objective and rational as men.

To succeed in leadership roles, women should not shy away from being perceived as multi-dimensional individuals. Instead, they should be viewed as a complex individual. To combat this stereotype, we must stop linking our idea of emotional strength with leadership ability. A good leader does not have to be emotionless or overly influenced by emotions. Instead, a good leader is someone who can make sound and logical decisions despite their feelings.

3. Tough leaders can be women.

Another stereotype around female leaders stems from the idea that women fit into three or four roles: the mother, the seductress, the pet or the tough “mannish” woman.

Women can defy these stereotypes by incorporating the best qualities from each role. For instance, a female leader can offer guidance and advice to her team like a mother while also taking on traits typically associated with men such as assertiveness and confidence. As more women challenge traditional gender roles and embrace their unique identities, people will gain exposure to the diverse complex world of female leadership.    

A woman can exhibit toughness, decisiveness, and control without sacrificing her femininity or conforming to male standards.  By empowering women to shape their own identities, society can broaden its understanding of what constitutes effective female leadership.

It is crucial for a young woman aspiring to leadership to embrace both her toughness and femininity, or even a combination of both. Breaking free from the notion of women fitting into one-dimensional roles will profoundly shape our perception of gender and leadership. 

Unfortunately, negative stereotypes about female leadership still pervade our subconscious.   It is therefore is vital to challenge these preconceived negative biases of women in power. As a young woman embarks on her professional journey, it is important that she presents herself as a complex. multifaceted individual. With more women taking on leadership roles our unconscious biases will gradually shift away from associating leadership solely with men and towards a more inclusive definition that encompasses both genders. 

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