tamentall mennevertheless/all the same

Did you know that a disproportionate number of CEOs for Fortune 500 companies are tall men? That's right, they are on average 3 inches taller than the rest of the men in the population.

Why is this? You wouldn't think that height would have anything to do with ability to lead a company. Nevertheless, tall men are more likely to end up in the position of CEO.

Studies have also shown that tall men earn more in Australia. Again, this is a strange result. Nevertheless, the data is difficult to dispute.

Maybe at a subconscious level hiring and promotion decisions go something like this: "Well, he's not really more qualified than the other candidates, in fact in some areas he's weaker. Nevertheless, he is taller than the others..." Or maybe the extra tallness lends the men confidence that leads them to pursue their goals. They might be aware that they're not the most qualified for the position but their height gives them the boost to say "Nevertheless, I will apply for the position."

All the same, if you have aspirations to be a CEO and you aren't in the class of tall men, don't give up! Don't let your dreams get crushed by statistics, no matter how authorative and discouraging they might seem. Say to yourself, "I may not be as tall as others, but I will nevertheless pursue my goals!"

jekor
2009-05-28