Louise Bennett
September 7, 2023

Updated: July 2, 2025

The Barbie Effect


In 2023, Barbie made more than just a box office splash. It reignited conversations around gender roles, ambition, and representation. For Australian employers and HR leaders, it raised a timely question:


How do we create environments where young women can see themselves as future leaders?


As organisations strive to improve gender diversity in business, Barbie’s evolution offers surprising insights into how we can better support female leadership and inspire young women to step into their potential.


Why Barbie Still Matters in 2025


Barbie has held over 200 careers, from astronaut to architect, surgeon to software engineer. Her journey reflects a broader cultural shift: one that encourages girls to dream big and lead boldly.

 

Key reasons Barbie remains relevant:

  • She normalises women in leadership roles from an early age.
  • She challenges outdated gender stereotypes in the workforce.
  • She sparks curiosity in underrepresented fields like STEM and politics.

Effective leadership transcends gender norms

- Karl Smart - National GM, Professional Services at Chandler Macleod

A little girl is wearing a lab coat and holding a stethoscope around her neck.

The Gender Confidence Gap in Australian Workplaces


Despite progress, many young women still hesitate to see themselves as leaders. This isn’t due to a lack of talent but often a lack of visible role models and support.


Did you know?

The most recent LinkedIn data shows that women hold just 30.6% of leadership positions globally, with Australia faring only slightly better at 33.9%.1


This confidence gap can start early and persist into adulthood, affecting career choices, promotions, and leadership aspirations.


What contributes to the gap?

  • Limited exposure to female leaders
  • Stereotypes around “leadership traits”
  • Lack of mentorship and sponsorship


From Plastic Role Models to Real Ones: What Leaders Can Do


Barbie may be fictional, but the message she sends is powerful: you can be anything.


Employers can build on this message by creating real-world pathways for women to lead.


Ways to support emerging female leaders:

  • Highlight diverse leadership stories internally
  • Offer structured mentorship programs
  • Invest in leadership development tailored to women
  • Audit and improve gender equity in hiring and promotion

Take action now!

Chandler Macleod Consulting’s WILpower is a comprehensive leadership development program designed to empower women with confidence and practical skills to elevate their presence in the workplace.

Contact us today to discuss how we can tailor the program to your organisation.

A group of women in business suits are standing next to each other in an office.

I am extremely proud of RGF’s commitment to women in leadership roles which ensures we have an accurate representation of our overall workforce through collaboration, retention, diversity of thought and, above all, productivity.

- Cynthia Andrews - Director Social Impact, RGF Connect

How Employers Can Inspire Future Female Talent


Creating a culture that supports women in the workforce starts with intention and action.


Here’s how to start:

  • Review your leadership pipeline: Are women equally represented?
  • Promote inclusive leadership training: Equip all leaders to support diverse teams.
  • Celebrate success stories: Visibility matters – share wins and journeys.
  • Partner with experts: Work with DEI consultants to identify and close gaps.


Explore how Chandler Macleod’s diversity, equity and inclusion services can help you build a more inclusive workplace.


Ready to Build a More Inclusive Future?


At Chandler Macleod, we believe in creating real pathways for women to lead with confidence.


Whether you're looking to support emerging talent or reshape your leadership culture, we’re here to help.

Discover our leadership development programs

References

  1. Lara, S. and Baird, M. (2025). The State of Women in Leadership. LinkedIn Economic Graph. https://business.linkedin.com/content/dam/me/economicgraph/en-us/PDF/the-state-of-women-in-leadership.pdf
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