Purpose: The aim of this paper is to investigate whether those involved with recruitment/selection (RS) react differently towards male and female trainee managers. Design/methodology/approach: Measures of the perceptions towards trainee managers were collected from 440 managers and professionals involved in recruitment/selection (RS). Findings: It was found that males were seen to have more stereotype male management characteristics than females. Female (RS) perceived female management trainees as possessing more male management characteristics than did male (RS). Practical implications: The stereotype of the management trainee held by male (RS), with its emphasis on "male characteristics" would suggest females do face an unequal struggle in their careers. It is argued that male management characteristics, whilst possibly appropriate for organisations with a hierarchical structure, may not be as appropriate for the participatory organisational structure, which is becoming more common. Suggestions are made to help develop management skills for both male and female trainees. Originality/value: This article gives the perceptions of people who recruit male and female trainee managers and will be of interest to employers and employees alike. (Contains 7 tables.)