Posted by denised in 
Gender preconceptions impact the way we view bosses
Vicky Oliver, author of “Bad Bosses, Crazy Coworkers and Other Office Idiots,” says she’s observed the differences between how male and female bosses are perceived in the office. While a male boss who freely gives his opinion is perceived as someone who “tells it like it is,” the same behavior in a female counterpart is seen as a lack of tact. Aggressiveness in males in business is expected, even lauded, in women, it’s seen as being bitchy.
The truth is, bad boss behavior is oftentimes perceived as much worse when it comes from a woman. That might be due in part to the belief that some hold that women are the gentler, more caring sex. Seeing them behaving in an aggressive, “bossy” manner is disconcerting for some.
The next time you’re feeling especially frustrated in a situation where a female boss is laying down the law, ask yourself what’s really bothering you about what’s happening. Is your boss really behaving badly, and if she were a he, would your reaction be the same? Bad boss behavior, regardless of who it’s coming from, is unacceptable, but reacting differently to a man’s bad behavior than to a woman’s is a lose-lose situation for everyone involved.
For more on the topic, check out Anthony Balderrama’s article, Gender Benders article on AOL.
What’s been your experience with male and female bosses? Have you seen a real difference in management style, or have the differences been more a result of your own preconceived notions? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
