Challenging Gender Stereotypes in the Boardroom: A Women Entrepreneur's Perspective

As a woman entrepreneur, I have encountered numerous challenges in the business world, particularly in boardroom dynamics and VC meetings. Traditionally, these environments have been dominated by men, which can perpetuate stereotypes and biases, making it difficult for women to gain respect and be taken seriously. However, through my own experiences, I have learned that the level of respect you receive is directly correlated to how you present yourself and the values you bring to the table.

Agreeing with the Observations

It is well-documented that women tend to question themselves more than men and may not be as assertive. This stems from societal norms and the way women have been shaped mentally. These societal influences often lead to a lack of confidence and a tendency to defer to authority, particularly in male-dominated environments. However, I have witnessed firsthand that women can and do take themselves seriously, and when they do, they command a level of respect that can be unparalleled.

Personal Experience

One of my most vivid experiences of this disparity occurred two years into my company, when I brought on a male co-owner. This co-owner, who is also an attorney, brings a traditional business look to the table, which often confers an air of authority and expertise. Although I brought more experience with marketing and day-to-day operations, my male co-owner frequently asserted himself in meetings, even when the questions were technical or marketing-related.

For instance, our prospective clients would often ask technical or marketing-specific questions, and my male co-owner would deflect by saying, “She can speak to this better than I can.” Yet, when it came to follow-up questions or more detailed inquiries, these queries consistently returned to him. This behavior often made me feel marginalized and unimportant, even though my contributions were recognized. This pattern was not unique to me; it has been observed in other female colleagues as well.

Interplay Between Male and Female Co-Founders

The dynamic between male and female co-founders can vary widely. In some cases, female co-founders tend to be more confident and assertive, bringing a different set of skills and perspectives to the table. However, if a female co-founder is not taken seriously, it can create a challenging environment where neither gender is fully respected. Conversely, female clients often preferred to speak to me over my male co-owner, highlighting the unbalanced power dynamics.

Addressing the Issue

To combat this issue, it is crucial to work with a team that acknowledges the problem and is committed to finding solutions. One effective strategy is to defer to each other's expertise in meetings and presentations. By clearly indicating who is the go-to person for certain questions, we can ensure that our value and knowledge are fully recognized. This requires a team approach and a willingness to break from traditional gender roles.

Role of Society and Decision-Making Processes

The gender imbalance in leadership positions also plays a significant role in business decisions. When fewer women are in powerful roles, their input and advice frequently go unheeded. Often, women in these roles are seen as mere information providers, feeding data to male decision-makers who ultimately disregard their input. This not only undermines the efforts of women but also leads to inefficient and sometimes unsustainable business practices.

Conclusion

The barriers to women's success in business are complex and multifaceted, but they are not insurmountable. By fostering an environment where all voices are heard and respected, and by recognizing and addressing the underlying biases, women entrepreneurs can thrive. It is important for both men and women to work together to promote gender equality in the boardroom and VC meetings, ensuring that all perspectives are valued and that women are given the respect they deserve.