Here's a very interesting article about tests describing why women's salaries are generally lower than men's. Essentially, it has a two part answer: women tend not to ask for raises as often as men (self-esteem?) AND part of that is because women who do ask for raises are socially penalized more than men who ask for raises. I guess it boils down to a negative stereotype of the ambitious woman.
Which is why I have my doubts that Hillary Clinton could be elected president.
3 comments:
I'm waaaay behind on my blog reading because this has been a rough month, so I'm just now catching up and saw your post.
I did a lot of reading on this when I was in HR, especially since I worked in the financial services industry which is quite male dominated. I DEFINITELY agree that women tend to not ask for raises. I have seen it time and again. Heck, when I received a large raise at one of my annual meetings, I didn't think I deserved it.
But, I don't necessarily believe it's self esteem. I don't have self esteem issues, I actually didn't think I deserved it because I felt I really hadn't worked as hard as I should to receive it. I also think it has a lot to do with the way women are raised. We've come a long way, but I think women still need to be taught to be more independent and strong.
I've read about this a fair amount, too. I actually was turned down when I asked for a larger raise. Told that the budget couldn't handle it and that I got the largest percentage in the group. But if I'm being paid less than anyone else, it's a pretty easy way out to give the largest percentage, eh?
I agree with your conclusion, Anne, that the world STILL has trouble accepting stronger women. Bless all of you strong women for keeping up the good work. Men are hard headed.... they are changing... and I think some of the younger, more self assured men, men who are not intimidated by strong women, have a rough time getting into positions of authority so that slows down the change.
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