Women and leadership 4

Dr. Gloria Wu discusses women in leadership, referencing prominent figures such as Rosabeth Moss Kanter of Harvard Business School, who emphasizes that confidence is not a character trait, but the expectation of a positive outcome. This idea parallels the themes in John Gordon’s “The Energy Bus,” where leaders are encouraged to drive their own journey and focus on creating a positive vision. Wu stresses the significance of leadership, highlighting its impact on organizations, referencing the infamous 2017 United Airlines incident where a passenger was forcibly removed, resulting in public backlash and a drop in the airline’s stock. This illustrates the critical role leadership plays in shaping public perception and maintaining organizational stability.

Wu further explores gender expectations in leadership, noting that while male and female leaders may not inherently differ, society often imposes different standards on women from a young age. Drawing on data suggesting that companies with 30% women on their boards tend to have fewer lawsuits and ethical issues, she highlights the importance of inclusive leadership. Wu also praises role models like Jim Goodnight, CEO of SAS, who practices the “Golden Rule” and fosters a supportive, family-friendly work environment with low turnover. She encourages leaders to create positive, inclusive environments and to surround themselves with people who share their vision, helping their organizations thrive.