Creating Value Through Leveraging Gender Norms

Abstract

This article examines how blending both traditionally masculine and feminine traits in an organizational culture might create value for a company. The article examines workplace defaults and compares and contrasts masculine and feminine traits. Then, the results of an analysis of the research on how masculine defaults create and destroy value in organizations are examined. Next, the article presents the findings from research examining how masculine and feminine traits and behaviours can create and destroy value. Finally, the article examines the impact of hybrid or androgynous traits and behaviours and presents directions for future research.