Women have leadership competencies but lack the right experience, says research

Women rate higher in overall competencies for senior leadership positions, but they lack key career experiences that give men the edge when it comes to promotion to the upper echelons of organisations, according to a study conducted Korn Ferry.
Wed, 3 Sep 2014 Women rate higher in overall competencies for senior leadership positions, but they lack key career experiences that give men the edge when it comes to promotion to the upper echelons of organisations, according to a study conducted Korn Ferry.

The global leadership and talent consultancy’s research found that with the exception of confidence, women generally score higher than men in all dimensions of leadership style, and in most of the skills and competencies deemed necessary for senior leadership success, such as employee engagement, customer satisfaction and building talent.

However, women are missing out on experiences that men take advantage of in mid-level management roles. The study said that these experiences should include challenging and difficult situations, and relate to business growth, financials, strategy and high-risk and high-visibility assignments, such as helping turn around a low performing unit.

In a press statement Peggy Hazard, managing principal at Korn Ferry, said: "In achieving these skills, women often face obstacles, including different gender norms and 'unwritten rules' around power, risk, critical experiences, teaming, networking, style of presentation and communication.

“With the right development programs, women can build confidences, identify unique barriers and learn how to navigate obstacles to reach their goals.”
 
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