Encinas Blog Post 3

In Theories and Models, we studied the leadership dynamics between men and women and how gender affects the path to leadership. Specifically, there are biases against women that act as barriers to rising in leadership. We learned that women are often judged more harshly for acting too feminine or not enough, and arguably more negatively labeled. These barriers can look very different in different industries, and it was something that I was very aware of coming into what I thought of as a male dominated industry. When I was evaluating whether biases against women were particularly strong or nonexistent at BRG, the first thing that I looked at was the makeup of my peers and managers. I see that that my office is very evenly split and that seems like a positive indicator. However, I notice that the overall company is led by mostly men. Of course, neither of these observations lead to definite conclusions, a noticeable difference in the makeup of low- and high-level leadership is a topic that we discussed in theories and models as an indicator of problems along the leadership path.

On a more positive note, I have also had a more tangible positive experience with seeing women in leadership positions in my specific office. The highest-level leader that I work with is a woman and she serves a very important role in the company. I see her lead dozens of people and projects every day. I am very curious to talk to her about her experience getting to the position she holds now and how gender and gender bias affected it. I see her command a great deal of respect from all her followers, so I know she has been successful in any barriers she has had to overcome. One of the most common and major barriers that many women face is the expectation of having a family and a career. This leader has two very young children and has simultaneously excelled at her job. This not only shows me that she has conquered this balance, but also that the company hopefully accommodates a work life balance that tends to disadvantage women in business. I feel very lucky to have her as a leader and role model and hope to learn as much as I can in the upcoming weeks from her.