An investigation into gender differences with respect to administrative leadership styles: case of Polokwane Municipality

Abstract

Gender differences and stereotypes in administrative leadership style have been a contested terrain all over the world. In particular female leaders happen to be victims of this scourge. Statistics show that people generally prefer to be led by male leaders. The study seeks to establish the implications of the gender differences in terms of administrative leadership styles and strategie power relations at Polokwane Municipality. The study was conducted amongst women and men who have minimum of three years of leadership experience at Polokwane Municipality. The study employed a qualitative approach. Respondents were identified using purposive sampling. The study found out that respondents network voluntarily and also cultures play a role in shaping one's leadership styles.