Women Helping Other Women

I work in a predominantly female workgroup and find that the women who are in management are not very open to helping develop and promote other women. Is this an isolated situation or do you see this in other organizations?

Unfortunately, the research and studies have shown that women are not as apt to help other women as men have historically done in the workplace. In a recent informal study conducted by CNN on bullying in the workplace, it was found that most of the bullying is done by women and most is directed toward other women. Honestly, this is a workplace phenomenons that saddens me greatly. I so long for women to be mentors to one another and to encourage each other in corporate life.

Some people contribute this negative behavior to something called the Queen Bee syndrome, which implies that when a woman has clawed and scraped her way to a senior position, she isn’t as anxious to help others because perhaps nobody helped her. This is an unfortunate response, for many reasons. First, it’s a negative outlook to have. Second, helping deserving professionals of either gender to reach their potential is one of the most rewarding and satisfying facets of being a leader. Helping others to develop and grow is one of the most positive work experiences that a leader can have.

All I can say about women who aren’t open to helping other women is this. We can’t control what others do, but we can control ourselves. The best way to break this cycle is to approach your own career differently. Lend a hand to women coming up along with you or behind you, and to men as well. Be known as a woman who is secure enough in her own abilities and career to help others develop their own talents. You’ll have a richer professional life as a result, and you won’t be sorry. I promise.