'Men feel uncomfortable around us', say female bosses
The Forum of Private Business News, 11th July 2003

Over three quarters of senior female managers believe that their male colleagues are not comfortable working with them, according to a new study.

In a poll of 234 women executives, Eve-olution and vielife found that 81% felt that men were nervous in their company and another 78% called for more training to help male staff learn how to communicate with them.

Some 87% added that there was inadequate gender specific training available as well as a lack of mentoring and coaching schemes.

Another three fifths of respondents criticised their company for not recognising or promoting women on an equal basis with men.

The reported concluded that by overlooking the differing needs and aspirations of men and women, firms are making it difficult for female workers to progress within the company.

Tracey Carr, managing director at Eve-olution, said: "We are going through a unique period in history where men and women are having to learn for the first time how to get along at work whilst keeping quiet about differences and challenges."

"Training is not only a means to ensure staff have the vital skills required to carry out their jobs to the best of their ability, it is an essential part of a retention strategy and can help overall business goals through a motivated and focused workforce."

A recent survey by the Future Foundation and Orange hinted that the situation was improving for female executives.

Some 82% of employees working for female bosses said that the leadership was good compared to 70% in companies run by men.

External Links

Forum of Private Business
Vielife

:: back to top | previous page