The current state and impact of women in leadership

The presence of women in corporate leadership roles is increasing, and this shift is proving to be a powerful driver of organizational success. 

• Growing Representation: As of 2023, women held 29% of C-suite positions, a significant jump from 15% in 2017. The number of female CEOs at Fortune 500 companies also reached a record 10.6%. 

• Financial Performance: Research from The Conference Board shows a compelling link between gender diversity and financial success. Companies with at least 30% women in leadership are 12 times more likely to rank in the top 20% for financial performance. Similarly, firms with strong female leadership have been shown to deliver a higher return on equity. 

• Unique Leadership Strengths: Women leaders often bring enhanced creativity, empathy, and collaborative skills to the table. These attributes are vital for bold decision-making, innovation, and managing teams through periods of stress and rapid change, such as during digital transformation. 

🚧 Persistent Challenges on the Path to Leadership 

Despite the progress, women continue to face systemic barriers, particularly in male-dominated fields like technology. 

• Gender Bias and Discrimination: A 2025 survey found that 72% of women in tech experienced gender bias that affected their promotion or leadership opportunities. Furthermore, 56% faced discrimination or harassment that hindered their career progression. 

• Lack of Access and Transparency: There are significant inequities in career advancement mechanisms. About 58% of women in tech do not have equal access to networking as their male colleagues, and 70% believe promotion processes are unfair and lack transparency. 

• Work-Life Balance and Self-Doubt: Balancing professional and personal responsibilities remains a major challenge, with 67% of women saying work-life balance policies negatively affect their leadership prospects. Additionally, 85% reported experiencing imposter syndrome or self-doubt. 

💡 How to Get Involved and Develop Your Leadership 

A great way to gain skills, find mentorship, and build a supportive network is to attend dedicated events. Beyond the conferences listed above, here are more ways to engage: 

• Explore Local and University Events: Many universities and local organizations host their own conferences. For example, the University of West Florida's Women in Leadership Conference recently held a sold-out event for students, young professionals, and executives. 

• Understand the Event Offerings: Conferences offer various formats to suit different needs. The Women in Leadership Institute™, for instance, provides everything from a full 4-day "All-Access" pass with 360-degree assessments to shorter "Virtual Keynotes" options for those with busy schedules. 

• Focus on Skill Development: These events are designed to provide practical tools. You can expect to learn about leveraging your strengths, negotiating with confidence, aligning personal values with leadership behaviors, and building a powerful network. 

I hope this overview helps you navigate the landscape of women in leadership. Whether your interest is general or focused on a specific industry, knowing about these opportunities is a great first step. 

By Jamuna Rangachari