This stereotype is often trotted out to explain the lack of equality between men and women in the world of business, but recent research completely disproves it. The differences between the sexes are actually far better explained as the result of a set of practices and habits ingrained in business culture, rather than by the differences between men and women themselves. Simply put, people react differently according to the situations they’re placed in.

Among the factors that foster success in business are access to information networks, tolerance of mistakes and quality of feedback. Studies show that, in most companies, women fare much less well than men in these areas. Everyone, male or female, behaves more cautiously when they have fewer opportunities. But it’s easier to say that women just aren’t as good at their jobs...

The fact that women are given fewer networking opportunities than men reduces their chances of succeeding in negotiations. One study gives the example of Mary and Rick, who both have the same job in a financial services firm. Rick sits on the board of another firm, which gives him access to more information about investment opportunities than Mary, who hasn’t had the chance to meet high-level external partners.

Many studies also show that tolerance of mistakes is much lower for women than for men, and their punishment more severe. The slightest mistake made by a woman is paraded for all to see, while for men, companies tend to focus only the positives, turning a blind eye to any mistakes. So should we be surprised that women tend to take fewer risks?

Women also seem to receive less feedback than men, for whom it’s more direct and regular. It’s therefore harder for them to correct any problems as they go along, which can lead to surprises during the annual performance interview. Is it any wonder, then, that women struggle more with self-confidence?

To fix this imbalance, companies must first recognise that it exists. Then, they must identify the root cause of the differences in how men and women are treated. We all expect to be treated the same way.

Pierre Gildemyn

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Note: this article is a summary of one that appeared in the May-June 2018 issue of the Harvard Business Review.