Writer Calls on Women to Collaborate, Not Compete at Work

The views expressed herein are solely those of the writer.

Written by Phoenix.

Power Dynamics Among Women in the Workplace: A Call for Collaboration

Research has shown that in many workplaces, women have made significant strides into leadership roles. The presence of women in leadership is not just a matter of representation; it is a cornerstone of progress. When women step into positions of influence, they bring diverse perspectives, foster inclusive decision-making, and challenge long-standing barriers that have limited workplace equity. It is a proven fact that organizations with women in leadership often achieve stronger financial performance, greater innovation, and healthier workplace cultures.  Beyond the numbers, women leaders serve as role models, proving that ambition and collaboration can coexist, and inspiring the next generation to aim higher.

While this is commendable achievement, it is important to examine the power dynamics among women themselves that create new challenges. A recurring concern shared by many women including this writer is that women who hold influence, and or those favored by powerful female leaders often engage in behaviors that marginalize or undermine other women.

This dynamic that is present in many work environments has manifested itself as exclusion, bullying, or discouraging collaboration. Rather than fostering solidarity, these actions have reinforced competition and rivalry among women, ultimately weakening collective progress. Advocates for workplace equity argue that the solution lies in shifting the narrative from competition to collaboration. Dr. Skelton in an article titled “Why Women Tear Each Other Down” stated that, “When women see each other as allies instead of rivals, they dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality,” noting that, “bullying or exclusion only strengthens those barriers.” Thus, as we begin this new year, let us as women take steps towards altering the way we look at other women. We are stronger together and equally phenomenal, in our own way. 

Let us begin with ourselves, then inspire a friend, who hopefully will inspire another woman, thereby encouraging a ripple effect of allyship. This may look like:

Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives rather than favoring a select few.

Offering mentorship and support across different levels of seniority.

Celebrating colleagues’ achievements instead of viewing them as threats.


We can all rise.  When one woman rises, she should extend a hand to lift others. True progress comes when we stop competing for limited opportunities and start building environments where every woman has a chance to succeed. The fact is, we don’t all share the same dream or have the same purpose in life, and while this is so, it also doesn’t negate the fact that no matter how different our individual purposes are, we are equally important, especially in the eyes of God. So, there is no need to bad mouth a colleague to your friend in leadership, attempting to “block” her from a well-deserved advancement in her career. 

The broader message is clear: women in positions of power have a unique opportunity to model inclusive leadership. By choosing collaboration over rivalry, they can create or foster work environments where women thrive collectively. It is worth stressing that collaboration is the antidote to these destructive patterns. Allyship among women can:

Expand opportunities rather than reinforce scarcity.

Create inclusive networks that amplify diverse voices.

Model supportive leadership that challenges systemic barriers.

Failing to address toxic behaviour among women risks reinforcing the stereotypical notion that women cannot work together effectively. It also undermines broader gender equality initiatives by fracturing solidarity. So, how do we move forward?
Advocates have recommended concrete steps, here are a few:
Accountability in leadership: women in power must be encouraged to uphold high standards of inclusive behaviours.

Mentorship programs: women in power can also structure initiatives to ensure support is distributed fairly.

Cultural change: women in power should explicitly encourage collaboration and discourage rivalry and bullying.

The fact is, when women in power choose exclusion over allyship, (often because of favouritism), they replicate the very systems they themselves have fought to overcome. True progress for women extends beyond breaking glass ceilings; it hinges on how we support and engage with one another. Everyday realities reveal that allyship is not merely a concept but a practice, demanding intentional actions, authentic relationships, and at times, personal sacrifice. When embraced consistently, allyship fosters work environments where opportunities are shared, and success becomes collective.

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