TED Talks Daily The rigged test of leadership | Sophie Williams
May 28, 2021
Sophie Williams, an equality activist focused on the glass cliff phenomenon, shares insightful research on the precarious positions of underrepresented leaders. She discusses how women and people of color often find themselves in high-risk leadership roles, establishing a critical link between societal biases and workplace dynamics. Williams highlights the unique challenges these leaders face, especially in troubled businesses, and calls for systemic changes to create equitable opportunities for all in leadership. Her compelling insights urge listeners to rethink inclusion in the workplace.
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The Glass Cliff
- The glass cliff describes the precarious position of underrepresented leaders.
- They often inherit leadership roles in companies already facing significant challenges.
Women in Leadership
- The Times newspaper explored the performance of businesses led by women.
- They wrongly concluded women were bad for business, overlooking pre-existing challenges.
Pre-existing struggles
- Research shows underrepresented leaders often take over struggling businesses.
- This crucial detail is omitted in narratives blaming their leadership for failure.