In 2024, women still earn less than men, are less likely to be promoted, and have a harder time raising funding to support their businesses than their male counterparts. Not to mention the fact that they face hundreds of cases of microaggressions in the workplace every day. How can we combat this? What can we do? We suggest that you first learn what the Rapunzel Theory is.
ContentWhat is the Rapunzel Theory?Why is the Rapunzel Theory important?How to implement the Rapunzel Theory in your career
If you and your colleagues follow it at work, the situation will improve. WomanEL will tell you about it in detail, as well as why it is important.
What is the Rapunzel Theory?
First of all, what is the Rapunzel Theory? Well, it's pretty simple. Remember how Rapunzel throws her hair down to help the prince climb the tower? So it is here. Only instead of hair, we throw down lifebuoys for the women who follow us up the career ladder at work.
“The Rapunzel Theory is about taking conscious steps to help others succeed in their careers while you build your own,” explains Eleanor Caillet, managing director of the Newton Venture Program.
“It's the concept of paving routes for others, or reaching out to help people up, instead of focusing solely on what's next for you on your personal career path.”< /p>
This is the exact opposite of the concept of the “queen bee.” It’s when women in leadership positions criticize their junior employees and quickly distance themselves from them. This is itself a phenomenon rooted in patriarchy, as research shows it stems from gender inequality and discrimination. But the Rapunzel theory is the opposite of that, forcing us to move away from competition and toward a mindset of alliance and empowerment.
“The Rapunzel theory is a great representation of the idea of ‘going down the ladder.’ And it’s really important for women leaders to create paths that others can follow,” says Sophie Atwood, CEO of SA Communications. “When we invest in the growth and development of the next generation, the benefits extend far beyond those we mentor.”
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Why is the Rapunzel theory important?
Helping others reach their potential is simply an incredible pleasure. It will benefit you personally, Source: freepik.com
“Women continue to overcome barriers and climb the career ladder in various industries. However, the path to success is rarely a solitary one. And the importance of supporting women in the workplace cannot be overstated,” says Jenny Segal, an expert on workplace culture. “Regardless of their position or level of seniority, women have a unique opportunity to create a network of support that promotes growth, equality, and empowerment for all.”
This theory is particularly useful for addressing the issue of career accessibility for women, who may not have the “entry” to many professions.
“Keeping this concept in mind can be a great reminder of the impact we can all have on career development and ultimately leveling the playing field in the world of work,” says Kaye. Otherwise, there is a risk that only those with strong connections or “friends in the right places” will gain an advantage.
No matter what we do, we all leave a legacy and influence others. Even if we don’t realize it.
“We should all lend a helping hand whenever possible to guide someone down the path we have walked ourselves,” agrees Yuty founder Simi Lindgren. When women come together, it creates miracles.”
In a world that often pits women against each other, it's important to remember how important it is to lift each other's spirits and support each other.
How to Implement the Rapunzel Theory in Your Career
There are many ways to make workplace behavior changes that will benefit everyone, men and women alike. And the responsibility doesn’t just lie with senior employees.
So how can we all make sure we’re living the Rapunzel Theory? Here’s a list of steps we can all take:
- Offer mentorship and coaching to junior employees where needed.
- Create a culture of alliance, including kindness and respect.
- Get to know each other inside and outside of work to strengthen connections and relationships.
- Stand up for other women when they are not around or unable to stand up for themselves.
- Create safe and inclusive workplace communities/cultures.
- Be receptive to other women’s ideas.
Consider how you can help develop broader workplace practices, such as implementing internal hiring, inclusion, and accessibility policies, so that your team reflects the world we live in rather than mirroring the hiring manager’s attributes.
Remember that success isn’t just about material achievements. “True success isn’t about how high you climb on your own; that would be a very lonely existence,” says Attwood. “It's about how many people you've brought with you to the top.”
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