With so many organizations competing for the women of the world, trying to get them to take notice and join up with them (instead of their competitors) I’ve noticed something disturbing: It’s not working. Though some have enjoyed moderate success at upping the numbers of female leaders on the payroll – too many (far too many) are struggling. As of April, only 15 of the Fortune 500 were led by women CEOs. That’s just .03%? – Pathetic. I think – and bear with me here – that I have identified the primary reason that so many of us long to achievie gender balance on our teams. Ready? Here it is: We keep trying to treat women as equals…..huge mistake. Now I’ve heard all the arguments: “a woman can do anything a man can do.” and, “women are just as good at men in the workplace.” But it never quite registered with me as the right approach.
Mario Vittone has eighteen years of combined military service in the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. His writing has appeared in Yachting Magazine, SaltWater Sportsman, Lifelines, and Reader's Digest. He has lectured extensively to business leaders, educators, and the military on team motivation, performance, mission focus, and generational diversity.
Tagged with gender, Opinion, women.
I may be biased here, (being a woman and all) but I think you hit the nail on the head. So many good, qualified, dedicated women leave the workplace because we don't "fit in". I've been hoping the rest of the world would begin to understand that I don't want to be judged as "one of the boys" but as a woman who has the same occupation. You put into words what I've been asking for for years. Thanks, Mario.
Yes Betty – but just for the fashion tips.