This Appendix turns the tables and looks at the five challenges from an organizational perspective: What can organizations do to complement the efforts of women (and men) as they negotiate the conditions for their success? Traps can catch the unvigilant organization just as quickly as they ensnare individuals.
Common Traps
"She looks as if she might be the right person, but we'll just have to see."
"It would be good to have a woman in this role."
"Some of the aspects of our culture may not fit her at first, but she'll adjust."
An Organizational Response
Structure mutual intelligence-gathering processes to test for fit on both sides.
Common Traps
"It's a sink-or-swim culture; let's see how she does."
"People will take her seriously; after all, she's got the position."
An Organizational Response
Create support and backing mechanisms to make the case for the appointment and counter initial doubts .
Common Trap
"She can do more with less; she's done it in the past."
An Organizational Response
Align resources with the assignment's objectives and recognize that access to resources carries symbolic value.
Common Trap
"She'll be able to build a team; women are good at that."
An Organizational Response
Communicate the rationale for change early and often.
Common Trap
"If she's doing a good job, we'll know about it."
An Organizational Response
Ensure that reward systems capture qualitative and quantitative contributions.