Instead of trying to adopt outdated leadership models that often emphasize traditionally “masculine” approaches, women in leadership should cultivate their own authentic leadership style, shaped by their unique strengths, assets, and intuition.
Cultivating an Authentic Leadership Style
What qualities define a good leader? How can we align ourselves with our leadership role models? In our journey to becoming leaders, we often reflect on those who have made an impact in our lives. What traits do we admire in them? What does it take to become an effective leader? While it’s beneficial to seek inspiration from positive role models, as women, we must be cautious about centering ourselves around outdated leadership models.
The gendered descriptions of leadership styles in this article serve to illustrate socially constructed notions of femininity and masculinity, but they are not linked to any individual’s capacity to embody one style or the other. In other words, any person may possess traits considered “masculine” or “feminine.” Ultimately, everyone, regardless of their gender identity, should feel empowered to embrace their own unique approach to leadership.
Conventional “Masculine” Leadership Identities
Historically, definitions of effective leadership have been largely based on gendered constructs, emphasizing traits deemed “masculine.” Traditional “masculine” leadership characteristics may include hierarchical decision-making, authoritative roles, competitiveness, control, and a desire for dominance and power. While these traits may have benefited a particular generation of men, they do not represent the highest quality leadership traits today and often arise not from authenticity but from male-dominated power dynamics.
“Masculine” Leadership Qualities May Not Be Suitable for Every Leader, Team, or Organization
There are several reasons why women should avoid trying to replicate stereotypically “masculine” leadership styles. Firstly, adopting these traditionally “masculine” approaches can have negative consequences. Research published by the American Psychological Association indicates that women in leadership positions are often devalued compared to their male counterparts when they exhibit stereotypically masculine leadership styles, particularly when those styles are autocratic or directive. Furthermore, the devaluation of women is more pronounced in male-dominated roles and when the evaluators are men.
Empowered Leadership Begins Within
“Feminine” leadership models often emphasize empathy, collaboration, and intuition, drawing on different strengths and assets. This does not imply that women should refrain from exercising authority or control; rather, they should leverage their personal strengths and innate capabilities instead of attempting to mimic male leadership models.
Likewise, the qualities that define a good leader do not necessarily conform to traditional models. When determining our own authentic leadership style, it’s important to recognize that these conventional and “masculine” definitions may stem from older, male-dominated workplaces. Instead of adopting a persona shaped by external pressure or expectations, women in leadership should cultivate an authentic leadership style that aligns with their unique values, strengths, and skills.
Embracing our authenticity and individual leadership style becomes more powerful when we integrate all aspects of ourselves without concealing who we truly are. By fostering collaboration, empathy, and understanding, you can positively impact your team and company culture. Research indicates that women in leadership excel in interpersonal skills compared to their male counterparts, making this ability not just an asset but a critical component of success. These competencies empower women to perform and thrive, engage customers and employees, and cultivate talent within an organization.
Defining Purpose and Making an Impact
With a heightened sense of purpose and a deeper self-understanding, women can move beyond outdated and rigid definitions of effective leadership. This enables them to cultivate a more authentic approach that aligns with their personal strengths, values, and vision.
Take the time to reflect on your current position and your aspirations as a leader. This self-exploration can assist you in defining your own values, personal “why,” and vision within your leadership role. Focusing on identifying your unique strengths, assets, and competencies—rather than trying to emulate outdated or traditionally masculine leadership identities—can help you cultivate an authentic leadership style.
When you approach leadership with genuine reflection and authenticity, you gain a broader perspective on the goals you wish to achieve, the changes you want to see, and how you can drive progress within your organization. A clear purpose and authentic identity in your leadership style will imbue your role with meaning and enable you to engage with your team more effectively.