Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith discuss self-limiting behaviors that are simply part of being human. Their combined experiences with women in virtually every sector taught them that even women at the highest levels can undermine themselves with specific self-sabotaging or self-limiting behaviors that are different from those that most frequently undermine men.
Not all women are alike. Nor are all men. Gender is only one factor in determining how each of us responds to feedback, observations, suggestions, or critiques. That said, women often face various external barriers as they seek to advance in their career, which shape their experience of work.
Source: Strategy + Business, Summer 2018. Link.
Certain characteristics emerge: diligence, conscientiousness, a concern for the feelings and contributions of others, and a reluctance to join the “it’s all about me” competition that characterizes life and politics in many organizations. These characteristics are good. They are gifts you bring to the world, and they surely have contributed to your success. You don’t want to leave these strengths behind as you move higher and expand your scope.
Also see: HR and the #MeToo movement, Animal Health Digest, June 19, 2018. Link.