Abstract

The low participation of women in managerial positions spotlights a significant gender gap in the labor market. A reality that sublimates the merit of those women who have managed to reach relevant hierarchical positions. This study analyzes the practices and leadership styles of women who occupying managerial positions in Chile (Regi & oacute;n de Coquimbo). The research applied a survey to seventy women who run companies, based on the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI self -assessment) of Kouzes and Posner. In the exercise of their position, the results showed that woman managers apply a people -oriented style, using the practices of encouraging and enabling others to act. It is concluded that even when leadership competencies are mostly consistent with a transformational leadership model, they are not exclusive with the transactional type. Thus, a special concern for the promotion of collaborative work and job recognition is denoted.