Academic researchers ignored the issues related to gender and leadership until the 1970's. Women have entered the work force and excelled in leadership roles in the past three decades, increasing the interest in the subject of women and leadership. The culture in which we are raised influences our ideas about how the world works and also influences the development of our values. In some societies, for example, time is a circle. Many events go on at once, and there is no concept of "late." In other societies, time is a straight line that can be broken into segments and controlled. There are significant traditions that mandate who is allowed to trade with whom or the "formate" a discussion or business meeting must follow. These different perspectives cause confusion, misunderstanding and limited opportunity in a global society; Similarly, leadership is a lot more complicated in a diverse organization.

Culture and Leadership: Koski's article gives us an interesting take on how an Anglo manufacturer is finding common ground with his Latino employees. What do you think about this approach? How do leaders deal with the demands of cultural difference? What has your experience been either leading or following cross cultural situations?

Woman and Leadership: Northouse discusses the role of gender in leadership and whether there are different "styles" of leadership between genders. Are there barriers and explanations concerning the underrepresentation of woman in high-level leadership positions? What does the statement "woman have less human capital investment" mean? How does one "break the glass ceiling?"

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The approach discussed in Koskis article where an Anglo manufacturer is finding common ground with his Latino employees is commendable It reflects the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptabili... View the full answer