Restoring the Leadership Balance: WOMEN UNITE

Abstract

This chapter first reviews the remarkable fact that women, in spite of long-term higher percentages in college graduations, and having been confirmed to lead more effectively than male leaders, only hold 21% of C-suite positions. Foundational reasons for this to occur are considered, from self-deprecation to lack of mentorship, and from excessive competition among one another to relational aggression. The chapter dives into a phenomenon that has been addressed in a different light, but potentially not made entirely clear before: the fact that women oftentimes advocate men in leadership positions. Several reasons for this to be the case are discussed. The chapter next introduces the acronym “WOMEN UNITE” to serve as a support system for women who are eager to restore the leadership balance, and doing so in a consciously and morally responsible way. The elements of this acronym are: W alk your talk; O pen your heart; M otivate others; E xpress your appreciation; N urture constructive habits; U nderstand differences; N avigate the path from here onward; I nstill values into actions; T read gently; E xcel where it matters.