Ilene Lang, President of Catalyst Inc., opened the 10^th Annual Women's Leadership Conference with a riveting session discussing what we all should watch for, moving into the next decade.

Two studies she referenced sound particularly interesting -- both indicate that men AND women stereotype women.  Women and men think that women are good at "taking care" behaviors and men are good at "taking charge" behaviors.  So no matter how much women achieve, men are still considered better leaders.  She called this "think leader, think man".  The research also suggests that women put in the same efforts as men to rise to the top - taking risks, putting in the time, making personal sacrifices. Yet, the barriers they face are different - lack of networks and lack of role models...and this gender-based stereotyping.

By 2014, over 65% of new entrants to the workforce will be women or people of color.  And women will be just under 35% of the workforce.  These new entrants have grown up in a very different world - comfortable with technology, globalization and expect a different kind of workforce. 

Let's not disappoint them with the status quo.  Let's "take care" of them by "taking charge" and eliminating this gender-based mindset!