Despite the adversities, women gaining ever more space
The vision and performance of women make a difference in the work routine and the big companies know this
The corporate world is dynamic. With globalization, diversity agenda and pressure for results and high productivity, new concepts and methodologies of work draws attention. In recent times, some issues came into play, such as Big Data and happiness at work. Others not so new back to the discussions, as the behavior of young people, the need to increase the engagement of teams, debates about the balance between personal and professional life, and cost competitiveness strategy for turbulent times and diversity. But my sense is none was so talked, and thought deeply, as the participation of women in the corporate world and, in particular, the presence of women in leadership positions – and the world of business. From the pages of the weekly business academies, forums and lectures magazines, women’s leadership (or lack thereof) was the theme of time.
The numbers are revealing. They are the majority of the population. They also have the highest completion rate in upper reaches, have the best grades, are already reporting significant interest in master’s and doctorate, are arguably the most dedicated and deliver the expected results. However, only 3% of them reach the top of organizations. Why? To answer that question that remains, many international universities have dedicated time in researching the background this behavior. The goal is to point out, in a scientific manner, the reasons for such a low presence in charge of business and, from there, as organizations and society will work to reverse the situation. Large corporations are investing in finding solutions. Want to take better advantage of the fact that human potential is being wasted in this time of so-called talent shortage and the need for innovative ways. The vision and performance of women make a difference in the work routine and the big companies know this. A good portion of the most robust and well-equipped organizations in the area of personnel management have continually invested in customized programs for Assessment, Coaching, Counselling and Mentoring, and group training for its leaders and professional women with this potential. If everything is a matter of statistical fact is worth noting that the high rate of female participation in top of the most profitable companies in the world. This observation motivates many to look at the issue more closely.
The causes given for even low female participation in general (in Brazil and in the world) are many: Culture, Prejudice second generation, characteristics of the female personality and his way of perceiving the world, style difference between genders, lack of investment in networking and a mentor, difficulty of reconciling personal and professional life (marriage and children at the time of greatest velocity of career), and other aspects. These reasons do not affect all women in the same way. Many are so accustomed to the masculine logic of the corporate world do not realize that a few more barriers, which in itself is a barrier.
But women are gaining ground, even if slowly. And they need to be mindful of a few points. If you are a woman and found these lines, do the following reflection:
Self-knowledge: it is important to know the background its strengths and weaknesses, their personality characteristics and how these characteristics are adherent to the challenges of the corporate world. What is the meaning of career and what you want in the field of life? You must have a plan in this area, focused enough to keep her in the game and flexible, as appropriate, so that you can fit in any journey to reach the objective outlined.
Self-Development: It is critical to note that the top of an organization corresponds genuinely to your wishlist. If yes, how are you preparing for this challenge? How have expanded their leadership skills and relational? You know and build your network of relationships work? Has worked to develop a leadership style that is consistent with their values and not be tied to gender stereotypes (the good one or masculine)? Has developed its resilience and focus? Is solved with their perfectionism and guilt in order to deal more lightweight way to balance their different roles? Who are your role models?
Context: You are aligned with the values of your company? How are the opportunities within it? Is updated with the market trends and your business? The company works in which invests in its development? Its use provides the experiences you need to develop your skills? If yes is great, do not get to work. There is much to be done and the pursuit of personal and professional accomplishment is an individual responsibility.
Organizations want female talent. Will want and need it more and more. Then it is up to us, women who want a solid and expanded career opportunities, seek out these spaces.