Workplace cultures, societal expectations discourage women’s assertiveness – Salami

Despite increasing focus on gender inclusion in workplaces, many professional women continue to limit their visibility and voice in leadership spaces, often due to cultural and societal pressures.

Experts warn that this subtle phenomenon, sometimes referred to as ‘shrinking,’ affects not only individual careers but also organizational performance.

Abiola Salami, leadership coach and author said women often hold back not because of lack of competence or skill, but because workplace cultures and societal expectations discourage assertiveness.

“Many women are powerful and knowledgeable, yet they shrink,” he says. “They miss opportunities and delay taking decisive actions, not because opportunities aren’t available, but because they hesitate to step fully into their leadership potential.”

According to him, the consequences extend beyond personal growth. He noted that studies show that organizations with inclusive leadership structures benefit from stronger decision-making and improved innovation.

Salami said that when women limit their contributions, companies risk losing perspectives that could strengthen performance, and the broader economy suffers as untapped talent remains underutilized.

Chino Umesiobi, actress, who recently participated in a project addressing this issue, emphasized that the pressure to “play small” resonates with many women in real life.

“There are moments when women reduce their presence or achievements to make others comfortable,” she says.

“It’s a reflection of cultural norms that discourage full expression of talent.”

Experts argue that addressing this challenge requires more than awareness — it requires structural and cultural shifts.

Organizations, mentors, and professional networks must actively foster environments where women can assert their ideas, lead confidently, and access opportunities without feeling constrained by expectations.

As conversations around workplace equality continue, experts stress that confronting the subtle barriers that encourage women to shrink is essential, not just for fairness, but for strengthening leadership, organizational performance, and economic growth.