Leadership and Gender

Young (2004) present an interesting case-study about transformational and transactional leadership with focus on the gender perspective in higher education.  Both approaches are found. It is surprising and interesting, that the study demonstrates how women leaders seem to be inspired by male gender paradigms and male-type behaviours whereas male leaders show interest in female gender paradigms and behaviours.   

Furthermore, the study demonstrates that experience seems to have a major impact on leadership style

All managers cited the strong effect of their experience of poor management as subordinates, implying that their style consciously set out to be different (p. 103)

Another important finding was the managers reported that they were influenced by the models, skills and techniques of their academic discipline.

In a case study with focus on entrepreneurship and gender, Lynes, Wismer, and Andrachuk (2011) show that formal education plays a small role in womens preparation for entrepreneurship. Personal characteristics, informational learning and support from friends, families and mentors have an higher impact on the womens entrepreneurial ambitions.

References

Lynes, J., Wismer, S., and Andrachuk, M. (2011). The role of education in entrepreneurship: two Canadian studies, Advancing Women in Leadership, 31, 14-22.

Young, P. (2004). Leadership and gender in higher education: a case study, Journal of Further and Higher Education, 28, (1), 95-106.