Brave women break barriers
Where does bravery come from?
From the stories we were raised on as children, the concept of bravery is often associated with bold and daring acts by male characters saving the day. Women have been unknowingly influenced by female characters who are voiceless (think Ariel from The Little Mermaid), powerless without a man (like Cinderella), or overly sexualized (like Pocahontas).
Societal factors like these translate to women questioning whether they should speak up, when they should assert themselves, and how to appeal to others.
Despite significant progress in advancing gender equality in recent decades, women still face numerous barriers when it comes to being brave, especially in the workplace.
Barriers to bravery
Gender discrimination
One of the biggest challenges is gender discrimination. A staggering 42% of women report facing gender discrimination at work, according to recent statistics. This discrimination can take many forms, such as unequal pay, exclusion from promotions and important projects, and even sexual harassment. Women who attempt to speak up and address these issues often face even more pushback and obstacles, as they are seen as being “difficult” or “too aggressive.”
Representation
Another major barrier women face is a lack of representation in leadership positions. The gender gap in top corporate positions remains substantial, with only 9% of Fortune 500 CEO positions being held by women. This lack of representation can make it harder for women to find role models and mentors who can provide guidance and support, making it even more challenging to be brave and assert themselves.
Gender bias
The problem is also exacerbated by the prevalence of gender bias in the hiring process. A recent study found that 7% of women who were equally qualified for a job were turned down, compared to only 4% of men. This bias can be conscious or unconscious, but it can have a profound impact on a woman’s career prospects and opportunities for advancement.
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Wage gap
Additionally, women are often met with resistance when they try to negotiate for better salaries and benefits. In a 2017 study titled “Do Women Ask?,” researchers found that women do ask for raises as often as men but are more likely to be turned down. This disparity can have a cumulative effect over time, resulting in a significant wage gap between men and women that can make it harder for women to support themselves and their families.
Empowering women to be brave & BREAKTHRU
Brave women face numerous barriers. From gender discrimination and a lack of representation in leadership positions to gender bias in hiring and resistance when negotiating salaries, these challenges can make it difficult for women to assert themselves and speak up. It is crucial that we continue to work towards a more equal and inclusive society where women are encouraged and supported to be brave and pursue their goals and aspirations–where women can write their own stories.
We guide women to:
Learn more about how we are empowering women to be confident, clear, and bold leaders at breakthrubrands.com.