This publication will serve two purposes. It will explore how the gender binary impacts leadership and provides insight into first-person narratives and experiences of leaders that identify as gender fluid, non-binary, queer, or trans. These perspectives contribute to a broader understanding of the complexities surrounding gender and leadership, fostering dialogue and insights for readers seeking a more inclusive and equitable leadership landscape.
The gender binary presents an interesting paradox for leaders and raises the question for organizations on how to forge new paths and confront gender-based stereotypes in leadership. How might we challenge beliefs about leadership to break through the gender binary and embrace gender-fluid leadership styles?
King (2020) suggested that the first step is acknowledging inequality. Leaders need a brave space to discuss their experiences facing bias and inequity. She further asserted that leaders step up and acknowledge how inequality surfaces in teams, divisions, and institutions. Leaders need to move beyond acknowledging inequality and identify and name the barriers in their workplace.
This book invites leaders of all gender identities from all professions to contribute chapters about their experiences with the gender binary and leadership. How have societal expectations and stereotypes influenced their journey as leaders? We ask authors to explore the challenges, triumphs, and identity conflicts they have encountered in navigating leadership roles within the context of traditional gender norms. Their unique perspectives will contribute to a broader understanding of the complexities surrounding gender and leadership, fostering dialogue and insights for readers seeking a more inclusive and equitable leadership landscape.
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How will it impact the research community?
We will share personal perspectives, insights, and lived experiences of industry leaders to create recommendations, strategies, and practices for leaders to implement in their workplaces to foster more inclusive and equitable leadership.
This research:
Promotes Equity and Inclusivity in Leadership and Gender Norms: This work delves into the varied facets of leadership beyond conventional hierarchical structures, emphasizing inclusivity. It has the potential to inspire a broader spectrum of individuals to acknowledge and embrace their leadership capabilities, thereby cultivating a more diverse and inclusive research community.
Facilitates Leadership Development: Recognizing the diverse expressions of leadership motivates community members to invest in formal and informal development opportunities. This investment empowers individuals to enhance their leadership abilities and positively contribute to the community's growth and inclusivity.
Challenges Stereotypes in Leadership: By disputing the binary nature of leadership, this work challenges stereotypical notions associated with leadership roles. This reevaluation prompts reconsidering preconceived ideas about who can assume leadership roles, fostering a more progressive and open-minded perspective within the community.
Elevates Problem-Solving Capabilities: Acknowledging that leadership is not binary contributes to a nuanced understanding of complex community issues. This nuanced perspective can lead to more creative and practical problem-solving approaches as leaders explore a variety of perspectives and solutions.
In conclusion, this book holds the potential to significantly impact research on leadership, inclusivity, equity, and gender norms. It encourages reevaluating traditional models, fostering a more diverse, flexible, and inclusive approach to leadership roles and responsibilities.
Audience: Human Resource Directors, Administrators, Executive Directors, CEOs, Managers, Educators, Coaches, Mentors, Policymakers, Legislators, Researchers, Activists, Advocates, Allies, College and University Professors, College and University Students