Society has historically held lower expectations for teenage girls than it does for boys. The pressure to look beautiful rather than being guided to opportunities to lead is a real problem for girls and for the culture at-large. In today’s blog we will explore some of the reasons why society has low expectations for girls, the negative consequences this can have for all, and why investing in female leaders is beneficial to the workforce.

Throughout history, girls have been systematically held back and undervalued in society. From a young age, they are often taught to be quiet, obedient, and nurturing, while boys are encouraged to be adventurous, confident, and ambitious. These gender stereotypes have had a lasting impact on our society, and have led to the development of low expectations for girls in many areas of life. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why society has low expectations for girls, and the negative consequences that this can have.

1. Gender Stereotypes

Gender stereotypes have a significant impact on the way that society views and treats girls. From a young age, girls are often taught that their worth is tied to their appearance, and that they should be quiet and submissive. This can lead to lower expectations for girls in areas such as academics, sports, and leadership. For example, girls may be discouraged from pursuing careers in STEM fields because they are perceived as being better suited for jobs that require nurturing and caregiving.

2. Lack of Role Models

Another reason why society has low expectations for girls is the lack of visible female role models in many fields. When girls do not see other women succeeding in areas such as politics, business, and STEM, they may be less likely to pursue these fields themselves. This can perpetuate the cycle of low expectations for girls, as they are not given the opportunity to see what they are truly capable of.

3. Systemic Discrimination

Systemic discrimination against girls and women is another factor that contributes to low expectations in society. Women are often paid less than men for doing the same job, and are underrepresented in positions of power and influence. This can lead to the perception that women are less capable than men, and can contribute to lower expectations for girls and women in many areas of life.

4. Socialization

Finally, socialization plays a significant role in the development of low expectations for girls. Girls are often taught to be more passive and accommodating than boys, and are encouraged to put the needs of others before their own. This can lead to a lack of confidence and assertiveness, which can limit their ability to achieve their full potential.

The consequences of low expectations for girls are significant. Girls may be less likely to pursue higher education or challenging careers, and may be more likely to experience discrimination and harassment. They may also struggle with issues such as low self-esteem and poor body image, which can impact their mental health and well-being.

What Happens When Companies Invest in Women? 

Women bring a variety of positive qualities to the workforce, including:

1.     Strong communication skills: Women tend to have excellent communication skills, which can be beneficial in many different roles. They are often good listeners, empathetic, and able to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues, clients, and customers.

2.     Collaboration and teamwork: Women tend to be great collaborators and team players. They understand the importance of working together and bringing out the best in each other. They are often able to build strong relationships with their colleagues, which can help to create a positive work environment.

3.     Attention to detail: Women often have a keen eye for detail and are able to spot mistakes or potential issues that others may miss. This can be particularly valuable in roles that require precision and accuracy, such as in accounting, coding, project management, or quality control.

4.     Problem-solving skills: Women are often excellent problem-solvers. They are able to think critically and creatively, and can come up with innovative solutions to complex problems.

5.     Emotional intelligence: Women tend to be more emotionally intelligent than men, which means they are able to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with others. This can be particularly valuable in roles that require strong interpersonal skills, such as in customer service, counseling, or leadership.

6.     Diversity of perspectives: Women bring a unique perspective to the workforce, which can be beneficial in creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. They bring experiences and insights that can help to drive innovation and creativity.

In conclusion, society should invest in female leaders because gender diversity in leadership roles has been proven to bring about positive outcomes, including improved decision-making, innovation, and financial performance. Additionally, investing in female leaders promotes gender equality and empowers women to take on leadership roles, breaking down societal barriers and inspiring future generations. With the support and investment of society, female leaders can create a more inclusive and equitable world, leading to a better future for all. Ultimately, investing in female leaders is not only the right thing to do, but it is also a smart investment for the future of our society.