Many of the traditional stereotypes surrounding gender have started to shift in the modern era, but they certainly still exist. As a woman, it feels like you’ve had to work harder to get where you are, but you’ve made it to an executive position.
Do the obstacles that you faced before stop here? Sadly, the answer is probably no. It’s likely that you’ll still face gender-based stereotypes and potential discrimination. Outlined below are some of the more common examples.
A lack of support from some male colleagues
The overwhelming majority of men within your corporation are supportive, but this doesn’t extend to everyone. Some of the individuals that you are tasked with supervising resent the fact that you are in a high-level position.
Instead of cooperating and taking feedback on board, they are going out of their way to make life difficult for you. Their reasoning behind this is that they feel a woman should not be in your position. This is a discriminatory stance and it is something that you do not have to put up with.
Unequal pay for equal work
You’re one of several executives at the same level. Your counterparts are all males. You each share the same level of authority, you have equivalent abilities and experience in your roles. However, you’re being paid significantly less than your male colleagues.
If you’re doing the same job and share the same responsibilities, then how can it be justified that you are not being paid the same amount of money? Unequal pay is another common obstacle that female executives face in the workplace.
Ideally, the company you work for should challenge gender-based stereotypes. If they fail in this regard, then you may want to start thinking about your legal options.