The role of women in family businesses

The role of women in family businesses is explored in the paper. Although recognised as generally very important players, the role of women is oft en defined as invisible in business decision-making, supportive in men’s traditional business domains and only rarely adequately recognised and rewarded. The paper explores possible differences in the views of men and women who manage small family firms. Their attitudes opposing the traditional business roles of women, different views on managerial, ownership and transition issues and possible gender discrimination are examined. The findings support the paradigm of a different, more feminine style of management, while signs of discrimination are not clearly revealed.