Women in Leadership - Why Women CEOs are Different.

While the 2021 numbers are still comparatively small for female CEOs, the momentum is on the rise and certainly not to be ignored.

As of June 2021, there were 41 female CEOs employed at America’s 500 highest-grossing companies. Yet, the new high still translates to only around 8 percent of female representation at the top of the country’s biggest public businesses.

Still far below what they should be, the change continues to inch forward. Women CEOs tend to be slightly older than men in CEO positions, probably because it takes women about 30% longer than men to reach the upper ranks. Those women who do make it to the corner office are often profoundly committed to making changes within their organization.

What are the common competencies, traits, common experiences, and drivers that elevate women to become CEO of a major company?

• Women are an average four years older than their male counterparts and have worked in more roles, functions, and industries.
• Women are motivated by a sense of purpose and strive to create a positive work culture.
• Recurring traits in women CEOs include courage, risk-taking, resiliency, agility, and the ability to manage ambiguity.
• Women are more inclined to share the credit and encourage collaboration.
• While hitting business goals is important, many women never realized they had the potential to become CEO except for the encouragement of leaders.
• Women CEOs showed expertise in either STEM and business/finance/economics early in their careers.

Companies that choose to accelerate and maintain a steady supply of women CEO candidates can do so by identifying high-potential talent and empowering them in areas that play to their strengths.  Mentors play a strong role by encouraging more women to strive to become CEOs, and later offering sponsorship to help advance women’s careers.

Throughout each year there are many days and events which celebrate women and women leaders. Here are a few of these special dates which are supported by legions of followers.

• March 8th is celebrated as International Women’s Day, encouraging us to celebrate women’s achievement, raise awareness against bias, and take action for equality.
• April is the month when the annual “Day of Understanding” is celebrated. This event was created by CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion to help address bias in the workplace and society.
• March 8th is celebrated as International Women’s Day, encouraging us to celebrate women’s achievement, raise awareness against bias, and take action for equality.
• The National Women’s History Alliance recognizes the valiant women of the vote and encourages the continuation of this celebration throughout 2021 and beyond.

Witmer Group is a woman-owned digital marketing agency that fully supports the advancement of women in business. With more than 10 years of proven digital marketing services to a range of industries throughout the country, Witmer Group has created a momentum of success. We are proud to salute the growing number of accomplished female CEOs, as well as the talented up-and-comers. Find out more about Witmer Group and the devoted, collaborative team of professionals who move it forward.