I recently attended a webinar hosted by the Export Council of Australia. The topic focused on supporting women-led export businesses, acknowledging that even today, leadership is too often unconsciously associated with men. Some individuals hold deeply ingrained beliefs that men are simply do better jobs than women. This kind of mindset leads to glass ceilings and pay disparity, issues that still exist across industries.
Of course, it is worth acknowledging that in some roles, men might have advantages, just as women might excel in others. It can come down to individual strengths, physical demands, or lived experiences. But the real problem begins when people assume capability based solely on gender, before even seeing the person’s work. That is when opportunity gets quietly taken away, and people are overlooked not because they cannot, but because others think they cannot.
This made me reflect on how these subtle but powerful assumptions still show up in everyday life.
At my bindery, I have had moments where clients would visit, and if my partner happened to walk past without saying anything, they would assume he was in charge and I worked for him. In reality, we each run our own separate businesses. Yet the mere presence of a man can be enough to shift people’s assumptions.
At first, I wondered if this was simply an age-related perception. But then I heard a story shared by the founder of our institute that really stayed with me.
She went to purchase a sports car with her husband. Even though she was the buyer, the salesman directed all conversation to her husband, completely overlooking her. Her husband even pointed out, “She is the one buying the car, not me.” Still, the salesman continued addressing only him. In the end, she was so upset that they walked away without making the purchase.
It was not just disappointing. It was eye opening.
These are not isolated incidents. They are everyday examples of what happens when unconscious bias goes unchallenged. What stood out to me was not just the problem, but the power we have to change it. By showing up, taking the lead, and supporting one another, we can challenge outdated beliefs and shift perspectives.
Progress may be gradual, but every time a woman leads a business, makes a bold decision, or speaks up for herself, we help reshape the narrative. Let us continue to stay aware, lead with confidence, and question assumptions. Positive change often begins with small, everyday moments.
Feel free to share if this resonates with you.
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