As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I've lost count of how many times I've been asked to "prove myself" in ways my male counterparts never have. It's a phenomenon that's all too familiar to many women in business, and one that's rooted in a deep-seated double standard. In this post, we'll explore the ways in which this double standard manifests, and what we can do to shatter it once and for all.
The Double Standard: What It Looks Like
The double standard women face in business is a subtle yet pervasive phenomenon that can be difficult to put your finger on. According to a study by McKinsey, women are 28% less likely to be promoted to management positions than their male counterparts, despite having similar qualifications and experience (McKinsey, 2020). This disparity is often attributed to biases and stereotypes that perpetuate the notion that women are less capable or less committed to their careers than men.
Research shows that women are also more likely to be held to higher standards than men, and are more likely to be criticized for their appearance, tone, and communication style (Harvard Business Review, 2019). For example, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that when men and women exhibited the same leadership behaviors, women were more likely to be seen as "bossy" or "aggressive", while men were seen as "confident" and "assertive".
The Impact on Women's Careers
The double standard has a profound impact on women's careers, from the number of women in leadership positions to the amount of money they earn. According to the US Census Bureau, women earn approximately 82% of what men earn, with women of color earning even less (US Census Bureau, 2020). This pay gap is often attributed to the fact that women are underrepresented in high-paying industries and occupations, and are more likely to take time off from their careers to care for family members.
"The double standard is not just a matter of fairness, it's a matter of economics. When women are held back, it's not just women who suffer, it's the entire economy. By promoting diversity and inclusion, we can create a more vibrant and resilient economy that benefits everyone."
Breaking Down Barriers
So, how can we break down the barriers that prevent women from succeeding in business? One key strategy is to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. According to a study by Deloitte, companies with diverse workforces are more likely to outperform their less diverse peers (Deloitte, 2019). This is because diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives and experiences to the table, leading to more innovative and effective solutions.
Another key strategy is to provide women with the support and resources they need to succeed. This can include mentorship programs, leadership training, and flexible work arrangements that allow women to balance their work and family responsibilities.
Creating a Level Playing Field
Creating a level playing field for women in business requires a fundamental shift in the way we think about work and leadership. It requires us to recognize and challenge our biases, and to create a culture that values and supports diversity and inclusion. According to a study by the World Economic Forum, companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion are more likely to attract and retain top talent, and to drive business growth and innovation (World Economic Forum, 2020).
To create a level playing field, we need to take a number of concrete steps, including:
- Providing equal pay and benefits for equal work
- Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace
- Providing support and resources for women to succeed
- Challenging biases and stereotypes that perpetuate the double standard
Conclusion and Call to Action
The double standard women face in business is a complex and deeply ingrained issue, but it's not insurmountable. By promoting diversity and inclusion, providing support and resources, and challenging biases and stereotypes, we can create a level playing field that allows women to succeed. As a woman in business, I know firsthand the challenges and obstacles that women face, but I also know the power and potential that women bring to the table.
Aimee Lankford is the co-founder of The Mediatwist Group, a woman-co-owned marketing agency that helps brands dominate. Visit mediatwistgroup.com or follow @mediatwist.
Key Takeaway
Shattering the double standard women face in business. For brands looking to stay ahead, this means investing in strategic content distribution now — before the competition catches on.
