Mintigo recently conducted comprehensive gender study on companies with over 100 employees or over $50 million in revenue. Using predictive algorithms to gather data from all across the web, the technology analyzed millions of companies from across the United States. The results indicate that companies with over 1,000 employees should probably hire a female CEO. However, Women only make up 17% of CEOs.
The study pinpointed a few striking differences in leadership: female run companies had robust marketing teams, more publicity, stronger event planning, and a greater online presence. There were quite a few other striking differences in leadership:
- Men tended to achieve better results than women in companies with up to 1,000 people, however in larger companies, female CEOs averaged 18% higher revenue per employee than their male counterparts
- Companies with female CEOs were more likely to work in the B2C space, while male CEOs were more likely to work in B2B
- There are more women in healthcare and non-profit organizations, while men dominated the manufacturing and construction space.
What Are Women Leaders Doing Differently?
Another study suggests that men are more aggressive when asking for what they want. This could account for women comprising only 17% of CEOs if they are as (or more!) qualified, but less insistent. How do you get that number to go up?
Have a Clear Mission
Ariana Beil, VP of Customer Success at Mintigo, suggests having a plan. “The clearer and more specific the mission for your career, the better,” she says. Make a plan and go for it. Don't listen to that little voice that tells you you're not good enough, not worthy enough. Believe in your abilities and shoot for the moon.
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Women tend to be less likely to take on a job they don’t feel qualified for; but change only happens when boundaries are pushed. “Push yourself to take on roles and responsibilities outside of your comfort zone,” suggests Meagan Einsberg, Vice President – Customer Marketing and Demand Generation at DocuSign. “If you even think you are partially qualified, you are more likely fully qualified. Go for it.” Along with that comes confidence. Even if you don’t feel confident – fake it till you make it!
Collaborate with Your Team
You’re only as strong as your weakest player. In order to lead effectively, create a collaborative environment that allows your team members to bring their A game. “The future is connected and collaborative,” says Lindsey Nefesh-Clarke, Founder of Women’s Worldwide Web. “Increasingly, success arises out of creative collaboration and it's crucial to create smart collaborative networks: internally, within a company, harnessing talent at all levels; and externally, within one’s sector and across sectors.” Basically, if your team does well – you’ll do well. Give them the best possible chance.
Be Bold!
Lisa Joy Rosner, CMO of Neustar reminds us, “You don’t get what you don’t ask for; the worst thing that can happen is people will say ‘no.’” The best way to advance is to keep asking for what you want/need (no matter how big or bold) and you will be surprised at how many yeses you will get! Never depend on others to be your advocate – take matters into your own hands.
It's time to raise the bar on your own career and raise the percentage of Women CEO's. Take 2015 by the horns and make it your best year ever!
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This guest post comes courtesy of Viktoria Tsukanov, Mintigo.