You might say in this day and age such a question? What is the difference between a man and a woman? Well none as far as I’m concerned yet we can’t deny the fact that gender differences do exist and very often we have to live with it.

I had put forward this question in a discussion group in a social networking site and I got some very interesting answers.

Before I get down to quoting them let me cite my experience with a woman boss. I had a woman boss who was more like a caring attentive mother than a boss. As a boss she tried to find out about each member of her staff (almost like her family). She would take time to personally talk to them. Appreciate whatever they did and also try to understand what problems they were facing in their personal lives. She used to give a free hand to each member of her staff and rarely if ever resorted to shouting or scolding. Needless to say, she was popular with both men and women.

But then all are not like this. So we still need to know what kind of boss you prefer. I’m now going to quote all the participants of the discussion group. Names are changed to protect identity.

 

Susan Mathews: The ability to talk about many “male oriented” subjects such as golf, motor racing, soccer etc
this will allow her to integrate all sexes in her team.

Interesting observation! Yes, men will respect her because she is able to go beyond the limits set for women. Well said Susan!

 

Jane Edwards: Susan - I agree. If a businesswoman can talk on these subjects it may set her apart from her peers and will be viewed in corporate America as one of the team! Let’s face it, the better versed a professional is whether it is a man or woman the better they can communicate to their subordinates and peers.

I would also add the ability to remain cool and collected and not allow emotions to drive their decision. Critical thinking skills are extremely valuable as well in top leadership.

 

Susan Mathews: Jane, yes you’ve got it. And also being able to explain a decision, if necessary, in 5 different ways so that anyone can understand!

 

Another interesting observation was made by Maryann she stated:

 

Maryann: The ability to be thick skinned but also to recognize that showing emotion and a softer side isn’t a bad thing. There is the tendency to try and conceal this in order to appear as tough as male colleagues. It’s a useful attribute.

 

Jane Edwards - I had to laugh at this one! Communication is key to be able to talk to all levels of the business. Let’s use manufacturing as an example. Having the ability to talk about LEAN processes, to operations, financial, volume and deadlines to upper management as well as to the average line worker.

Great input!

 

Me: I agree Jennifer the ability to stay calm when faced with a difficult situation shows her inner strength and definitely would be a plus in the corporate world.

 

I fully agree with this comment by Amanda as I don’t see a point in completely losing oneself by becoming totally disoriented trying to become what you are not.

 

Amanda: And come from your heart, stay in integrity with who you are….incorporate your spiritual side for balance.

 

Maria: Something I think is important is to know how to “coach” that is encourage and support your team to achieve your goals. Once I read a maxim which I try always to put in good use: TELL ME…I FORGET, SHOW ME…I REMEMBER, and INVOLVE ME…I LEARN.

 

I think Maria has a great lesson for all the women bosses out there. This post is open to suggestions so leave your observations and comments.

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