Page 4 - Module 2 - Downloadable Workbook
P. 4
Stereotypes & Gender Boxes
© 20-first 2021
13
The Likability Box
For men, success and likeability are positively correlated. While for women, the two are often in conflict.
Studies show that success makes women less likeable, an attribute key to women's gender box. As we saw in the Heidi / Howard exercise. This forces women to walk a tightrope between expectations – be powerful or be likeable.
This can lead to reluctance among some women to claim power, self-promote or actively take credit for their achievements.
What About Your Team?
Now think about your team members and how they interact in the workplace.
• Do your all your team members share their ambitions with you?
• Have you observed any animosity or coolness towards female team members who are promoted or perform well?
• Do you or your team act more favourably towards your male team members when they succeed?
• Do your female team members openly share their successes and achievements or try and downplay them?
