Are Women Taking Charge? Part II

Women are increasingly successful in education, business and a range of traditional careers such as accountancy, banking, law, medicine, science and veterinary medicine. Women are playing a greater role in all areas of business and their influence will shape business and the global

One of the reasons often given for the increasing success of women is their commitment to education, as they often tend to be better qualified than their male colleagues.

A second, perhaps even more important, reason may be the need for greater levels of communication and collaboration in our increasingly information-rich data-driven world.

Success in today’s world often comes from the ability to listen to others, work as part of a team, understand different perspectives and find creative solutions.

The traditional use of force and coercion and control to get things done no longer works; as influence, persuasion and the engagement of others are now more effective skills in the workplace and in life.

Businesses are responding to a changing situation and looking for people with softer and more inclusive skills who can influence and empower others to build long-term relationships.

Women often fit the bill as their natural strengths in communication, sharing information and listening are seen as assets in an information-driven knowledge intensive world.

There is evidence that companies with a greater percentage of women on their board perform better than companies with boards made up entirely of men, not least because of greater diversity of opinion and the benefit of different contributions and perspectives.

The so called ‘soft’ skills are not necessarily easy skills as they require honesty, clarity and the development of trust between people in relation to what each person can contribute to a project or team.

Business leadership used to be about telling people what to do and how to do it, however, with more women and young people joining the workforce the culture has changed.

The shift in culture, particularly amongst young people, from ‘compete and win’ to ‘share and include’ is happening and women are well positioned and well able to play their role.

SO, women are taking charge and the trend will continue as businesses increasingly recognise and value their skills and contribution in the boardroom.

What do you think?

Are women taking charge?

Look forward to seeing your comments below.