It’s an age old debate: are men or women better?
Although there is no concrete answer, men are winning the battle, in regards to C-Suite positions. Studies show that in Fortune 500 companies, 15% of women are C-Suite executives and a mere 5% are CEO’s (Business Insider). This statistic is alarming considering women make up 51% of the employees in management positions (Business Insider).
What is to blame for this inequality?
Some would say gender biases, lingering about women in authoritative positions. Although people may not be conscious of it, they have different expectations for men and women. In an attempt to counteract this, programs have been set up over the years to create more opportunities for women in the business industry. Catalyst, for example, provides services to help empower women to take on leadership roles and Lean In is dedicated to achieving gender equality all over the world.
Despite the fact that these initiatives are useful, I believe that everything ultimately comes down to earning positions through hard work. Regardless if you’re a man or a woman, jobs are not simply handed out. Whether it be having a special skill or being able to speak 5 languages, when it comes down to it, you are hired for what you are able to bring to the table. Your contributions to the company is the key into the C-Suite.
Sources:
Bloomberg: Women’s C-Suite Equality is Only 100 Years Away
Business Insider: ‘Lean In’ Isn’t Enough: Women’s Progress In Leadership Has Stalled
Fast Company: The Business Case for Women in the C-Suite
Forbes: Hidden Bias Prevents Gender Equality In The C-Suite