Alpha Males and Alpha Females: Male executives from around the world on how to increase gender diversity in senior management

International male business leaders discuss gender diversity, the rise of talented women into management, and the opportunities for the sexes to work together harmoniously in boardrooms. The book argues that companies that want to succeed need to productively combine and leverage off the strengths offered by men and women. It covers how mixed leadership teams can be made the norm in international companies and presents the mens views in their own words, complemented by alternative perspectives from top female executives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 22 May 2023
Publisher: De Gruyter

Gender diversity, the rise of talented women into management, and the opportunities for the sexes to work together harmoniously in boardrooms are all topics of significant interest to international male business leaders. However, there are also obstacles that stand in the way of achieving true gender equality in the workplace.

When most people think of a manager, they tend to imagine a male figure. Boardrooms around the world are still dominated by "alpha men" and their assertive, decisive leadership styles. Meanwhile, their female counterparts, known as "alpha women," remain underrepresented in almost every country. Many women feel that they have been excluded and are calling for equality.

This book offers a fresh perspective on gender roles that moves away from the old paradigm of male domination and female victimhood. It argues that companies that want to succeed need to productively combine and leverage off the strengths offered by men and women. It covers how mixed leadership teams can be made the norm in international companies.

To find some answers, Bettina Al-Sadik-Lowinski interviewed senior male executives from eleven countries. These "alpha men" agree that women and their abilities should be better represented on company boards. They believe that the current imbalance is due to a mix of talented women's reluctance to pursue their career ambitions along with the barriers created by existing power structures. Male managers fear losing face and being shown up by strong women. They want recognition, rather than aggression, from their female colleagues.

The interviewees also discuss what they see as women's strengths, such as their positive, calming influence in male-dominated meetings, and comment on sensitive topics such as #MeToo and the influence of "erotic capital" and "old boys networks." The book presents the men's views in their own words, complemented by alternative perspectives.

It is clear that international male business leaders recognize the importance of gender diversity and the need to promote talented women into management. However, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed to achieve true gender equality in the workplace. These include the need to break down barriers to women's advancement, such as unconscious bias and gender stereotypes, and to create a culture that values and supports diversity and inclusion.

Furthermore, it is essential to address the issue of gender pay gaps and promote equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender. This requires companies to implement policies and practices that promote fair compensation and equal access to career development opportunities.

In conclusion, international male business leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting gender diversity and achieving gender equality in the workplace. By recognizing the strengths offered by men and women and by working to break down barriers to women's advancement, companies can create a more inclusive and productive workplace for all employees.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 170 x 240 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783111169422