The Consequences of Making the Right Impressions for STEM Women: Metastereotypes, Impression Management, and Supervisor Ratings

A growing literature has investigated the role of stereotypes in the underrepresentation of women faculty in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM; Beutel & Nelson, 2005). Extending this literature, the current study of 173 women faculty in STEM fields investigates the role of metastereotypes (perceptions about how others stereotype one’s ingroup; Vorauer, Main, & O’Connell, 1998) on two forms of impression management: self-promotion and ingratiation (Bolino & Turnley, 1999). Results suggest that metastereotypes largely do not affect impression management behaviors; however, engagement in impression management behaviors relates to supervisor ratings. Specifically, using self-promotion tactics was negatively related to supervisor ratings of likability, whereas using ingratiation tactics was positively related to likability. This research has implications for STEM women faculty and their employing institutions.