A Study of Female Managers, Public Relations Departments.

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to find out how gender and leadership stereotypes have Impacted women’s access , success and experiences in leadership roles in Public Relations. A qualitative in-depth interviews was employed to gather data Data was collected through interviews with 10 women working in leadership positions in the public relations field and analyzed based on themes and using the Feminist Standpoint Theory and the Liberal feminist theory which were the theories underpinning this research . The study found six major themes related to the experiences of these women leaders in public relations: (a) promotional barriers, (b) double standards for women, (c) pressure of stereotypes, (d) leadership styles, female competition and bullying, and (f) optimism about the future. The study found that these women thought that gender has influenced the challenges and success they have faced in their careers; Specifically, the participants described their challenges as promotional barriers as well as inequalities in salary and representation in leadership roles. The findings also indicated that these women thought they were perceived as leaders in both a positive and negative light and believe a double standard exists between women and men leaders. Finally, the study also found an issue with female competition in the form of workplace bullying. However, the participants see a shift happening in the field of public relations regarding gender issues, which they believe will benefit women. This study recommends that laws are put in place in organizations and in government such that equity is achieved among men and women alike in the workplace. Also, Developing mentorship programs for women in leadership roles to connect with those women in high school or college could be a way to show young women that women do have a spot in leadership and to help create advocates for other women. There are several opportunities for future research to further develop these findings and to arrive at a greater understanding of women in leadership roles in Public Relations. One particular area that could be to open the study includes both male and female perspectives regarding women in leadership roles. Another area could be to dive deeper into the issue of interpersonal relationships within the workplace and specifically look into female competition and workplace bullying. This study found that gender has influenced the experiences of a selected group of women leaders in public relations in a variety of ways, such as salary, promotions and expectations. It is likely that gender will continue to impact women’s experiences until equity is achieved. It concludes that the influx of women within the profession does not devalue the profession. Therefore society must work toward achieving equity for women.