Societal expectations that women should be “polite” and “likeable” often create barriers to their ability to assert themselves and pursue leadership positions. These expectations imply that women must prioritize being agreeable and accommodating, traits that are traditionally valued in nurturing roles rather than assertive leadership roles.

As a result, women may hesitate to assert their opinions forcefully or negotiate for their interests, fearing they may be perceived as aggressive or unlikeable. This can hinder their advancement in competitive environments where assertiveness is often valued. Moreover, women who do exhibit assertiveness may face backlash or be labeled as “bossy” or “difficult,” reinforcing gender stereotypes and further limiting their career progression.

To overcome these challenges, women often navigate a delicate balance of being assertive while managing societal expectations of politeness and likeability. Breaking these stereotypes requires cultural shifts that recognize assertiveness as a leadership strength regardless of gender, and encourages diverse leadership styles. Organizations can foster inclusive environments by promoting mentorship, leadership training, and policies that support gender equality and empower women to assert themselves confidently in pursuing leadership positions.