Women leaders in South Africa face a significant challenge in the workplace, with research showing that they are 30% more likely to be judged on their leadership style and decision-making. This subtle yet powerful bias can have a major impact on their success, as they often have to exceed expectations set by an invisible panel of judgement.
According to a study by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, women make up only 28% of senior management positions in South Africa. This underrepresentation can be attributed to the hidden biases that women leaders face in the workplace.
Why Women Leaders Face Bias
There are several reasons why women leaders face bias in the workplace. One of the main reasons is the lack of diversity and inclusion in the corporate world. Many companies in South Africa still have a predominantly male-dominated leadership team, which can make it difficult for women to break through the glass ceiling.
Breaking Down Barriers
To overcome these barriers, women leaders need to be proactive and strategic in their approach. They need to build a strong network of allies and mentors who can support them in their career advancement. They also need to develop a range of skills, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
Some of the key skills that women leaders need to develop include:
- Leadership skills: the ability to inspire and motivate others
- Communication skills: the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders
- Problem-solving skills: the ability to analyze problems and develop creative solutions
By developing these skills, women leaders can increase their chances of success and break down the barriers that stand in their way. As noted by the Statistics South Africa, women who are in leadership positions can have a positive impact on the economy and society as a whole.
