Women's Appearance as the Focus of Attention in Organizations

Abstract

This teaching case focuses on appearance and gender discrimination in the workplace. Previous studies show, for example, that appearance, women’s especially, can be an invisible mechanism of discrimination and interpreted as a justification for sexual and gender-based harassment. Prior research also indicates that women suffer from gendered ageism, also related to looks. However, issues about appearance are seldom analysed from the perspectives of organizational (mal)practices and women’s career barriers and problems. This teaching case presents the case of Anna. The case is meant for management and organization students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Anna is a well-educated young professional who is considered a ‘pretty woman’ where she works. Anna wants to build a career in a field where men have traditionally been the decision-makers. In the case the following questions are in focus: What are the similarities and differences between gender discrimination, sexual harassment, professional behaviour and common politeness in organizational life? How does appearance affect career success? And finally, what are the consequences of the non-merit-based evaluation of workers and managers? With the help of this teaching case, students will deepen their knowledge and understanding of gendered practices related to appearance as a potential source of discrimination and harassment in career and organizational life in general. Additionally, the relevant outcomes with regard to both the woman and the organization are of interest.