Male/Female
Thinking
A study by the National
Federation of Women Business Owners found that men and women business
owners tend to think, manage and define success differently. Here
are their conclusions and what the best blend of male/female thinking
might look like:
The Finding: More
than half the women business owners emphasized intuitive or right-brain
thinking that stimulates creativity and values-based decision-making,
while more than seven in 10 of the men emphasized logical or left-brained
thinking that generates analysis and the development of procedures.
In a changing marketplace,
creativity and values-based decision-making are necessary for much-needed
innovation. Effective analysis and methodology are also critical
to the proper implementation of new ideas.
The Finding: A majority
of women tended to reflect on decisions, weighing the options and
considering the outcomes. Men emphasized action over reflection.
Well thought-out decisions
are a benchmark of management success; without the push to action,
little happens.
The Finding: Women
considered their male colleagues to be better delegators. Men admired
their female colleagues' abilities to be more perceptive and balance
priorities and tasks.
Accurate perceptions
of employees and customers make valuable data for business strategies.
Delegating responsibility effectively allows for greater leverage
of time and talent.
Learning what works from
others, whether men or women, gives us the opportunity to build upon
our strengths, reduce the liabilities of our weaknesses, and improve
our chances for business success. There is little to be won in a battle
between the sexes. But there is much to be gained in the blending
of talents and capabilities which elevates everyone - female and male
- all to a higher standard of performance.
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