Gender and Power

Renowned author Annette Simmons shares her insights into the relationship between gender and power in the workplace.

Key Takeaways: understanding gender and power

• Power is defined by context. Different people have different understandings of what power means.
• Masculine vs. feminine. The gender-power relationship isn't about men and women – it's about masculine (competitive) and feminine (caring).
• Accept the "paradox of gender." The two approaches are in constant dialogue and each has value. To avoid a power struggle, try to find ways to balance them.

Let's Act: overcome gender-based power struggles

On a scale of 1-10, how powerful do you feel? Do you think you're more competitive or collaborative-oriented? Power comes in many forms and has a complex relationship to gender.

So make this commitment today:

• Think back to a moment when you felt powerful.

What happened? Why did you feel powerful? Was there a measurable outcome, like a direct "win," or was it more of an internal payoff? Understanding your own relationship with power will highlight whether you lean more competitive or collaborative — and how both can hold value.

For more on this topic, explore these Mindtools resources on power and gender:

• Article: Eldred's Power Strategies
• Article: French and Raven's Forms of Power
• Article: Overcoming Gender Bias in Leadership
• Article: How Women Leaders Build High-Performance Teams
• Article: Women Leaders and the Perfectionism Trap