Female entrepreneurs do it differently: Do women feel pressured to accept male gender roles in order to succeed in business?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Leadership and entrepreneurship both have gender connotations. Business continues to operate within a male hierarchical model making it difficult for women to reach the pinnacle of top business positions. Women who have broken through the so‐called glass ceiling to achieve senior management positions, or who have spearheaded innovative businesses have often felt the need to adapt a more masculine persona in order to do so. The female business executive who arrives in the boardroom suitably “suited and booted” only weeks after giving birth, or the entrepreneur who relinquishes a collaborative team working approach to push her new product into the limelight demonstrate the adoption of a masculine model of success.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.

Citation

(2013), "Female entrepreneurs do it differently: Do women feel pressured to accept male gender roles in order to succeed in business?", Strategic Direction, Vol. 29 No. 3, pp. 23-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580541311304616