Recent research reveals that, unlike their male counterparts, women often feel pressured to be amiable and well-regarded in order to advance in their careers. This adds yet another layer of challenge for women already facing difficulties such as wage disparities. A new study indicates that women may need to exert considerably more effort than men to make their mark at work. Why is this the case? The answer lies in the requirement for women to be perceived as “nice” to gain influence within professional environments. It appears that popularity contests did not conclude in high school; they simply transitioned into the workplace for women.
Conducted by researchers from the European School of Management and Technology in Berlin and the IE Business School in Madrid, the study surveyed 200 engineers—both male and female—employed in teams at a global tech firm. Supervisors were asked to evaluate employees based on confidence, competence, and influence.
The Challenges Women Face
Women already face significant challenges in asserting their confidence in professional settings. They often find themselves interrupted, subjected to condescending explanations during meetings, and held to dress codes that are more stringent than those for men. Furthermore, they are frequently advised to “smile” and maintain a warm demeanor at all times. Do men face similar expectations to be well-liked and compassionate to succeed? Not at all.
The research shows that men are typically viewed as confident simply by demonstrating competence in their roles. In contrast, women must exhibit kindness and empathy to garner respect and recognition. As the authors of the study highlight, projecting confidence can significantly enhance an employee’s credibility and trustworthiness within their organization.
A Frustrating Double Standard
This creates a frustrating double standard for women, who are expected to embody traditionally “feminine” traits, while also recognizing that confidence and assertiveness—traits often tied to masculinity—are highly valued. Many women are understandably exhausted by these persistent inequalities in the workplace.
The study concluded that the repercussions of lacking warmth are disproportionately harsher for women. High-performing women find it more challenging than their male peers to sway others in their organizations, unless they also display concern for others, as is conventionally expected from women. So, to succeed, women must navigate the complexities of embodying the nurturing qualities of a character like June Cleaver, all the while demonstrating the confidence typically associated with male leadership.
The Need for Change
It’s essential to note that there is no inherent conflict between being confident and kind at work. Both qualities are beneficial. However, the reality that these traits are optional for men yet mandatory for women to achieve equivalent success is frankly exhausting and unjust.
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Conclusion
In summary, the burdens placed on women in the workplace are not only unfair but also exhausting. Achieving success requires an intricate balancing act of being both liked and competent, while men often enjoy a more straightforward path based solely on their job performance.