Women face the double bind where they are expected to be both competent and kind, hindering their ability to develop their leadership persona.
Women in managerial roles often lack recognition and positive feedback, leading to lower job satisfaction and questioning of their competence.
Deep dives
Challenges faced by women in their transition to first-time managers
Becoming a manager for the first time is particularly challenging, especially for women. Women face the double bind where they are expected to be both competent and kind, while their competence is frequently questioned. This can hinder young women who are still figuring out their leadership persona. Additionally, women tend to experience lower job satisfaction after becoming managers compared to men. Lack of access to networks and role models, as well as the concrete wall of unfamiliarity with workplace structures and unwritten rules, further compounds the challenges.
The importance of confidence-building and positive feedback for women managers
Confidence is a crucial aspect of being a great leader, and it often comes from positive feedback. Unfortunately, many women in managerial roles do not receive the same level of positive feedback as their male counterparts. This lack of recognition can lead to a lower sense of job satisfaction and a questioning of their own competence. Building confidence also requires overcoming the double bind, where women are expected to be warm and motherly yet competent. Providing support, mentorship, and opportunities for women to develop their skills as managers is crucial for their success.
Barriers for women in applying to managerial positions
Research shows that women are less likely to apply for roles that involve managing a team compared to other types of managerial positions. This reluctance may stem from various factors, including societal expectations, lack of visible role models, and a preference for roles that provide more flexibility. The study highlights the need for organizations to create environments that empower women to embrace leadership positions and overcome the barriers that hold them back.
Gaming as a dominant force in entertainment
The gaming industry is rapidly expanding and becoming more influential than traditional entertainment sectors like movies and streaming. The global gaming market has surpassed $200 billion, and its integration with other forms of entertainment, such as concerts, TV shows, and social media, is changing the landscape. The unique appeal of gaming lies in its ability to provide engaging, interactive experiences with a wealth of storylines, attracting massive audiences. The industry's monetization strategies, including recurring content updates, subscriptions, and in-app advertising, create sustainability and offer valuable lessons for other entertainment sectors.
Felix is joined by Bloomberg’s Sarah Green Carmichael and Harvard Business Review editor Amy Bernstein to discuss the particular challenges that women face when they first assume managerial roles. Why is it that women do not experience the increase in personal satisfaction that is typical for men? What can companies do to better support first-time managers, women and men? Plus, we talk about the booming gaming business. Will it swallow all of entertainment?
