GENDER DIFFERENCES ON 21ST CENTURY LEADERS

Mary Mia B. Malonzo, MaEd., LPT.

Who is more effective in terms of leadership? Is it men or women? This question has always been boarded with controversy. The leadership styles of men and women continue to attract the attention of society. As women increasingly enter leadership roles that traditionally have been occupied mainly by men, gender differences are now a concern. (Vecchio, 2002). Recently, the increased involvement of women in leadership is a distinct trend.

It is not surprising that several questions arise on the topic of gender and leadership. Matters like: Who is more effective in terms of leadership behavior? Who will be a competent leader? Who is likely to become a skillful leader? The question of whether men and women lead differently has intrigued society.

Two groups have their distinctive qualities. Men lead the management and leadership positions because of certain innate qualities. Men are risk-takers, and it is said that the riskier the venture, the greater the rewards. On the other hand, women tend to be more transformative. Women manage to emphasize teamwork and are people-oriented. Women stand higher in human consideration that enables them to foster unique and adapted connection with the subordinates, which are essential in transformative leadership styles (Robbins, 2009). People would certainly serve up these attributes as being those of an effective leader. Do we often look for the answers as to whether the influence of gender roles on a leader should be of primary importance in organizational settings with characteristics of passion, firmness, influence, and determination?

In today’s competitive world, men and women are now given equal opportunities to become leaders in society (Robbins, 2009). Alongside their noticeable characteristics, each group plays a vital role as leaders of society. Gender does not affect the leadership style of a person Regardless of gender differences, men and women attempt to become effective leaders in the workplace.

In general, the concept of leadership style embraces a range of qualities. Thus, various characteristics will be manifested whether there is a difference in gender or not. What is more significant is that leaders must possess good qualities that will make them effective persons who are passionate and committed to their role and will result in a better workplace. Additional to that, employees will have better results on whatever gender of their leader possesses.

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The author is Teacher III at Bacolor High School