Study: Women Leaders Damned if They Do, Doomed if They Don’t

Gender Bias: New research from Catalyst,a nonprofit that studies workplace issues pertaining to women, is set to release the third in a series of studies examining gender bias in the workplace. The study, titled “Dilemma for Women in Leadership: Damned if You Do, Doomed if You Don’t,” is based on interviews with senior executives in the U.S. and Europe. Among the findings: Women who act according to gender stereotypes aren’t considered strong enough leaders, while those who go against type are viewed as too tough. Woman who demonstrate assertiveness are perceived as competent, although often are not personable or well-liked. The study also affirms that women have to work twice as hard as men, but often don’t receive the same level of recognition or rewards.