We chose 5 common myths about women in the workplace and how the researches debunk them one by one.
1. Myth: Women are not as ambitious as men in the workplace.
Reality: Women are just as ambitious as men, but they face more barriers to advancing in their careers. Research shows that women have the same levels of ambition as men, but often face discrimination and bias that can limit their opportunities for advancement.
Source: Harvard Business Review - "The Ambition-Marriage Trade-Off Too Many Women Still Make"
2. Myth: Women are not good negotiators.
Reality: Women can be excellent negotiators, but they often face backlash when they negotiate assertively. Research shows that women can be just as effective as men in negotiations, but they are often penalised for exhibiting the same behaviour that is seen as positive in men.
Source: Forbes - "The Myth of Women Not Being Good Negotiators"
3. Myth: Women are not as confident as men in the workplace.
Reality: Women can be just as confident as men, but they often face more criticism when they display confidence. Research shows that women tend to underestimate their own abilities, but this is due to the bias and discrimination they face in the workplace.
Source: The Guardian - "Why Women Are Less Confident Than Men And What To Do About It"
4. Myth: Women are not as committed to their jobs as men.
Reality: Women are just as committed to their jobs as men, but they often face more challenges when it comes to work-life balance. Research shows that women are just as dedicated to their careers, but they are more likely to have caregiving responsibilities that can make it difficult to balance work and family.
Source: Harvard Business Review - "Do Women Really Have Less Time For Work Than Men?"
5. Myth: Women are not as effective leaders as men.
Reality: Women can be just as effective as leaders as men, and in some cases, they may be more effective. Research shows that women tend to exhibit more transformational leadership styles, which are associated with better outcomes for organisations.
Source: Forbes - "Why Women Make Better Leaders Than Men"