Why are Women Mentors Different Than Men? 

Women account for nearly half of the workforce and around 25% of the GDP. Therefore, it is evident from these facts that women have become significant contributors to the economy, and the numbers will only go higher in the coming years. Women can be found in every corporate ladder step, yet only a few make it to the top. While these women in corporations come from different backgrounds, mentoring is the common element that has helped them reach where they are.     

Mentorship for women becomes crucial when they step into the corporate world. From networking to building social capital, women mentors must learn more about their field and gain a broader perspective. Female mentoring is especially required in areas where there are fewer women. Mentorship for women is not just about boosting one’s career. One can also learn from long-term employees' wisdom and practical experience through mentorship. Women and mentoring are also crucial for the organization's development as they can boost productivity while lowering turnover rates.    

However, every individual faces a dilemma when selecting a mentor. They are confused about selecting a male mentor or going for female mentorship. Most experts and executives feel male mentors can provide better resources than female mentors. On the other hand, women mentorship is better when understanding some specific problems that mentees need to realize. However, most experts believe that gender should no longer be a deciding factor when choosing a mentor.  

If you are confused about men's and women's mentorship and wish to gain an idea about the difference between the two, here are a few insights that might help: 

Networking  

Male mentors usually have a lot more contacts than female mentors. Due to their ability to network well, a male mentor can help mentees with new opportunities. They can not only open doors for you but also influence other men. On the other hand, women are a bit hesitant when it comes to building professional relationships.  

However, women have the upper hand when facing unique challenges in the business world. Often female entrepreneurs face some distinctive challenges due to their gender. Men find it difficult to relate to such challenges and feel uncomfortable discussing them with their female mentees. Therefore, female mentoring is ideal in such a situation. 

High Positions 

Women employees can be seen in several high positions, but they seldom reach the top of the corporate ladder. Therefore, if you wish to make your way to the top, you must seek a male mentor, as they are better equipped to guide you.  

However, only a woman can relate to another woman. Women mentors are more suited to such issues, be it a toxic workplace culture or lack of confidence. They are great at addressing such problems and can validate the emotional aspects of decision-making - something that most women face in their work lives.   

Workplace Tools  

Men are considered to be more data-driven and process-oriented. They are also better when it comes to handling stress. Studies indicate that they are better at risk-taking and exercising emotional control and assertiveness. Men are also proactive when it comes to networking. Therefore, all these characteristics can be translated into workplace tools that one can learn from any male mentor.  

On the other hand, women use both logical and emotional intelligence while making decisions. While intuition is common to both, women are considered more intuitive. All these traits help female mentors recognize and address issues buried deep inside their mentees.  

Read Also: 6 Effective Work from Home Productivity Tools

Self-Confidence 

Men are more confident about their abilities and performance. This gives them an edge over women while qualifying for promotions. This kind of self-assurance is something that entrepreneurs need desperately in their lives. This helps them seek new opportunities and clients and makes themselves more visible to their managers. This kind of self-belief becomes an asset when you build resilience in the face of setbacks and challenges.    

Women are more focused on cooperation than competition, which is why they are more likely to stay together. A recent study found that women are more willing to compete and perform at higher levels on a team. Therefore, enterprises with more women on their boards witness higher investment capital, equity, and sales returns. This kind of mentality is something mentees can learn from their women mentors.   

While women can become better role models, men can help you find more opportunities. If women are cooperative and intuitive, men can handle stress better. Hence both genders have their positives, and there is no clear-cut answer regarding who makes a better mentor. Experts feel your decision must be based on your developmental needs at any point in your life or career.