Obstacles That Women Leaders Face in Rural Areas in Finland

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School of Business | Bachelor's thesis
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Authors

Date

2018

Department

Mikkelin kampus

Major/Subject

Mcode

Degree programme

(Mikkeli) Bachelor’s Program in International Business

Language

en

Pages

39 + 4

Series

Abstract

Objectives The main objectives of my study include to research the different obstacles that women leaders may face especially in rural areas in Finland. First, I want to explore the attitudes and perceptions that women leaders face at their jobs in rural areas. Second, I aim to research how possible self-depreciation have affected women leaders. Third, I want to explore the gender discrimination and stereotypes that occur in rural areas possibly have an effect on women leaders. Finally, my goal is to conclude how the factors above can hinder women from becoming leaders. Summary This research was designed to explore the obstacles that women leaders face in rural areas in Finland. I chose to conduct my research using qualitative methodology by interviewing women leaders from a small town in Central Finland. Finally, I got the results by exploring similar themes that were found in the answers of the interviewees. Conclusions In my research, I found out that especially ‘old-boy’ networks, self-depreciation, gender stereotypes, the industry, and the lack of opportunities in rural areas can be challenges for women who aspire to be a leader in rural areas. To improve the situation, there needs to be an attitudinal change towards women leaders in rural areas, which can be achieved as the number of women leaders in rural areas increase. In addition, it is important to get more women leader role models from rural areas to inspire young girls. Finally, also women leaders’ own attitude can play a role in decreasing the effect of obstacles.

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Thesis advisor

Collins, Kristie

Keywords

gender, leadership, rural areas, gender discrimination

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https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-201809105064

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[kand] Kauppakorkeakoulu / BIZ