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Why More Women Leaders Benefit Everyone and How You Can Support Them

February 24, 2025

When more women are empowered to lead, everyone benefits. Research consistently shows that women leaders help increase productivity, enhance collaboration, inspire organizational dedication, and improve fairness. Yet despite these advantages, only 10% of Fortune 500 companies are led by women.

Women in leadership are more likely to check in on team members and provide the kind of support that maximizes performance and growth. However, gender biases and stereotypes often stand in the way of their success. Here’s how you can help ensure that women’s leadership is recognized, supported, and celebrated in your workplace.

1. Make Sure Women’s Ideas Are Heard

Women are more likely to be interrupted in meetings—by both men and other women. Their ideas can be overlooked or co-opted. Here’s how you can change that:

2. Assess and Address Biases That Hinder Women Leaders

Women face a double standard that men don’t. Men are expected to be assertive and confident, but when women adopt the same communication style, they are often labeled as “aggressive” or “opinionated.”

3. Celebrate Women’s Accomplishments

Men often attribute their success to their own skills and hard work, whereas women tend to downplay their achievements, saying they were just lucky or had help.

4. Promote Mentorship and Sponsorship

Women need a strong support network, including mentors, sponsors, and coaches who advocate for them.

5. Embrace Empathy and Redefine Leadership Norms

Women leaders shouldn’t have to conform to outdated leadership models designed by and for men.

Final Thoughts

We all play a role in shaping workplace culture. By advocating for women leaders, addressing biases, celebrating successes, and fostering mentorship, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment where women—and everyone—can thrive.

What steps will you take today to support the women leaders around you?