Authentic leadership support for women

This recent HBR study reveals that women often see power as the freedom to make choices, while men typically associate it with control.

This difference matters because many programs focus on teaching women traditional leadership skills, which can unintentionally pressure them to conform to outdated norms. This often leaves women, especially those in senior roles, feeling restricted because true leadership involves setting, not just meeting, expectations.

Key messages:

· Women value power as freedom and choice, not just control.
· Many programs focus on traditional leadership styles, which can force women to conform and limit their authentic leadership.
· Women often feel powerful when they can make decisions and lead in their own way.
· Traditional programs often miss deeper issues like belonging and hidden barriers.

Recommendations:

·  Create spaces where diverse leadership styles are valued, allowing women to use their unique strengths.
·  Empower women to lead in ways that align with their values, moving beyond traditional norms.
·  Address deeper issues like unequal responsibilities at home and cultural biases to create a more inclusive workplace.

What changes do you think are necessary in workplaces to better support authentic leadership for women?

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