Gender diversity on corporate boards: importance of female traits/characteristics as perceived by university students
Corporate Communications: An International Journal
ISSN: 1356-3289
Article publication date: 2 January 2024
Issue publication date: 20 March 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to contribute to the literature on board gender diversity by soliciting university students' views on several perceptions raised by academics concerning the suitability of women to serve on corporate boards. In particular, if the opinions of male students differ from those of female students, this showing any gender bias.
Design/methodology/approach
The study is part of a much more comprehensive investigation into board gender diversity. It adopts a questionnaire approach, with this paper focussing on twelve research statements. Two hundred and ninety-six university students completed the questionnaires at a public university in the Czech Republic during March–April 2023. A pilot questionnaire was conducted in February 2023, resulting in minor changes being made. The data is analysed using SPSS and MedCalc® statistical software.
Findings
Whilst, in some respects, it supports the literature in relation to the observations highlighted in the research statements concerning female traits/characteristics, there is unmistakable evidence of gender bias in the respondents' opinions regarding the qualities women can bring to corporate boards. Overall, this research shows a negative bias by male respondents towards the positive attributes females can bring to the boardroom. This bias may influence the selection of female directors in the future. This research suggests that the apparent discrimination against women is not just because they are female but from a perceived mismatch between inferred female characteristics and male stereotype leadership requirements. There is, however, no gender bias with respect to students' leadership aspirations.
Practical implications
The findings of this research should help with policy-making decisions concerning the selection of future corporate board directors and help break down any negative gender selection bias. The paper adds to the discussion and debate about ethical issues related to business and broader society concerning gender diversity in senior management roles. It also adds to the political debate on the issue of legislative gender initiatives.
Originality/value
The research respondents' perceptions may well influence the decision-making process for the selection of future corporate directors. Whilst these current perceptions may, and invariably will, change over time, it is important to identify them at an early stage in the respondents' careers. This research gives a better understanding of the perceived qualities that women bring to corporate boards from an inexperienced perspective.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was supported by the internal project SPEV – Economic Impacts under the Industry 4.0/Society 5.0 Concept, 2023, University of Hradec Králové, Faculty of Informatics and Management, Czech Republic. The authors acknowledge the support of the student Thomas Sitzberger, who collaborated on data processing.
Citation
Lefley, F., Trnková, G. and Vychová, H. (2024), "Gender diversity on corporate boards: importance of female traits/characteristics as perceived by university students", Corporate Communications: An International Journal, Vol. 29 No. 2, pp. 152-169. https://doi.org/10.1108/CCIJ-09-2023-0128
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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