The Invisible Labor for Emerging Women Leaders: A Critical Analysis of Literature in Higher Education

• Published in: Advancing women in leadership 2023-01, Vol.42, p.35-47
• Main Authors: Blaha, Kathryn R, Reed, Kristine, Newland, Lisa A, Card, Karen, Polk, Larianne
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Employment; Females; Gender differences; Gender pay gap; School superintendents; Women
• ISSN: 1093-7099; 1093-7099

While studies focused on gender and negotiations have explored the procedures or outcomes of the negotiation, little is known about how women experience the process of negotiation for salary and compensation. This hermeneutic phenomenological study gave voice to female school superintendents' experiences with negotiation through 11 semi-structured interviews in the Midwestern US. Each 60-minute interview was recorded, transcribed, and verified. Keywords and phrases were identified, and clusters of meaning were developed to articulate themes and provide detailed descriptions of what women experienced throughout the negotiation process. Trustworthiness techniques were utilized in this study, including journaling, bridling, and member checking. Six themes emerged from the 11 semi-structured interviews: I am a Woman in a Man's World (Still), Negotiating for Myself is Uncomfortable, The School Board Holds the Cards, Experience and Salary Data are Key, Fairness is Important, and Female Leaders Need Support. Recommendations are provided to bolster support and preparation for women's participation in negotiation, including creation of network support groups, mentorship programs, and personal development opportunities, as well as further education for school boards regarding gender bias and disparity in negotiation. Recommendations are also provided for future research regarding female superintendents' experiences of negotiations.