An analysis of the influence of female leadership styles on organisational performance : the case of Larfage cement

Thesis (MBA) North-West University, Mafikeng Campus, 2010Recent years have seen an increase in females that are occupying management and leadership roles in organisations. Most of the studies have focussed on the difficulties that are experienced by women in working environment. This study, on the contrary, sets out to explore the attributes of successful female leaders. Specifically, the purpose of this study was to investigate the attributes that make women successful leaders. The research focussed on leadership and management profiles. In particular, the leadership and management traits were established and benchmarked against the attributes of successful famous women leaders. The study was carried out within a framework of a survey questionnaire employing quantitative data collection method. The study consisted of 98 participants from both private and government sector. The quantitative data was analysed using the relevant statistical tools. The major findings under management profiles, apart from lacking the ability to structure work, centre on the fact that female managers are good motivators. The results further indicated that women managers prefer to provide coaching and support, sharing what needs to be done than telling them what to do. The major finding under leadership profiles was that female managers preferred to lead by example; meaning that they focus on setting an example for the followers and are willing on taking risk. Another imperative finding was that women leaders demonstrated team-building leadership style when it comes to decision-making and problem-solving. Recommendations, using these findings, were made for women aspiring to leadership, women already in leadership and management positions and organisations.Master