Yes, things in the business world are getting better for women. And yes, we still have a ways to go. Women in leadership and executive positions stare down a double-edged sword daily. If their style is primarily assertive, decisive, task vs. relationship oriented, etc., they are labeled as too tough and masculine...the 'b' word. So does this mean don't act like a man? Or, if a woman's style is predominantly collaborative, supportive, and friendly, she is perceived as nice but less competent. So does this mean don't act like a woman if she wants to advance? But what's left - how is she supposed to act?

Women must walk a fine line in the business world, especially in longer-established industries such as financial services, insurance, automotive, and manufacturing. Using solely one gender communication style or the other can often backfire, much more so than it would for a man, as this inflexible behavior will illicit stereotyping and misperceptions of women's competence and personality. Such behavior by men can cause judgment too, but less often and less severe, with milder consequences.   

Eliminating these gender stereotypes is a valid but lofty and, for the foreseeable future, completely unattainable goal. So instead of focusing on eliminating stereotyping, the world would be better served by becoming aware of gender styles, accepting them merely as differences rather than right or wrong behaviors, and learning how to work with them more effectively. This approaches the issue by managing stereotypes, not expecting them to disappear.

The solution? Women will get the best results by recognizing that they are being judged more strictly, and by interacting and working with a blend of masculine and feminine styles. Men will get the best results by also working with a balance of styles, and by recognizing gender style differences as just that - merely differences - not right, wrong, bad or good. A different style does not translate to less competence, intelligence, or leadership ability.

No one needs to change who they are naturally, as all people are already a combination of both approaches (although many people, especially in business, get off track from their authentic blend). It's a matter of flexibility, awareness, and having the skills to apply each style in appropriate situations.

My work, which consists of over 18 years of interviews, consulting, and speaking for the business world, strongly indicates that the best leaders, regardless of gender, employ a blend of gender communication styles. The best companies recognize, encourage, and reward collaborative leaders who nurture and develop their employees, building loyalty while making the tough decisions, managing their time, and getting the job done.

So...Use a blend of feminine and masculine styles! Be trustworthy, honest, approachable, open, collaborative and supportive; while also taking risks, being assertive when necessary with courtesy, delegating, making the tough decisions, and promoting yourself appropriately.

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