There are so many successful leaders in current society and history. The majority of them are male leaders while a small proportions are female leaders. Although the number of women leaders in society is continuously increasing, there are still too few women in senior public sector leadership roles. Hillary Clinton, as a representative, is a successful leader in different ways.
There are many reasons prevent women from becoming good leaders. The first reason is that having babies puts women at a disadvantage. Only women can have babies. Last year, 72% of married or cohabiting mothers and 60% of lone mothers with dependent children had a job. Other than pregnant process, women still have to look after their children. The second reason is that some women just don’t have senior position.Some women do decide not to progress all the way to the very top of their organizations, for a wide range of reasons, including a desire to have a work/life balance.
A study by economists Donna K. Ginther and Shulamit Kahn found that women are less likely than men to pursue tenure-track positions in science but that the gender gap in such positions can be explained by fertility decisions. That is, women in science are less likely to move up the academic job ladder after their early postdoctorate years if they have children. The next reason is that there are structural impediments preventing women from reaching the top. Another problem to consider is that gender discrimination is still happening. According to the AAUW, “Some bias against women is subtle, but overt—and illegal—discrimination against women in the workplace remains an issue.”
Leaders, especially political leaders, are expected to have traditionally male characteristics such as rationality, charisma and assertiveness. Perhaps that’s why Indira Gandhi was a powerhouse in India for so long. She demonstrated the male characteristics people expected from the leader.
In 2008 Hillary Clinton ran for U.S. president. It was a courageous move, even for a woman who has not exactly played it safe.Over the years, and often in full view of a nation, she has developed an admirable ability to face adversity, get knocked down and bounce back. She has a strong track record for staying positive and optimistic, and operating with a sense of purpose and intention through difficult times. She is resilient.
Hillary Clinton hasn’t just taken on a presidential campaign; she’s also taken on the hopes and expectations of women around the world. It’s a huge load to bear.
Reference:
Shambaugh, R. (2010, June 21). Leadership Secrets Of Hillary Clinton. Retrieved April 19, 2016, from http://www.forbes.com/2010/06/21/hillary-clinton-leadership-lessons-resilience-forbes-woman-leadership-communication-connection.html
Dominici, F., Fried, L. P., & Zener, S. L. (n.d.). So Few Women Leaders. Retrieved April 19, 2016, from http://www.aaup.org/article/so-few-women-leaders#.Vxa4wcdQy0g