Some find it astonishing that in 2021, we are still talking about how women are still held back in the workplace. Unfortunately, women continue to struggle to advance in comparison to men.According to Fortune’s 2021 list, 41 women are leading Fortune 500 companies and for the first time two black women Roz Brewer and Thasunda Brown are serving as CEOs at the same time. “Great strides are being made towards equality in the workplace but even today, many women find themselves unfairly blocked from advancing in their career. Even the qualified candidates with a “can do” attitude are overlooked for senior positions” says Dr Oyewole Sarumi (Certified Trainer, Consultant and Coach)The phrase “glass ceiling” first appeared in an Adweek article in 1984. In 1986, the Wall Street Journal reintroduced the term as a headline on two occasions to describe the barrier that blocks women from the top jobs and executive positions in corporate America.
Research has shown that women are 18% less likely to be promoted than their male counterparts. When qualified people are overlooked for leadership positions, this can negatively impact organizations. Studies have also revealed that diversity is key to innovation, growth, and performance.While we continue to work and play our part towards closing the gender gap, here are three things’ women can do to contribute to shattering the proverbial glass ceiling.Network.
Most women at Executive levels, who often have various responsibilities in addition to careers, tend to avoid after-hours networking. Networking events are important to foster personal and career growth. GAIA AFRICA offers leading women an opportunity to network, collaborate and form lifelong friendships. Set a goal to make at least 10 new valuable connections each year and nurture those relationships.
Be Mindful of Unconscious Biases. Both women and men possess unconscious gender biases. Instead of denying them, bring them to light and openly discuss how to minimize them in the workplace. Examine how job descriptions or the selection of candidates to be interviewed for an open position might be contributing to gender bias.Self-Promotion? Why not? . Women traditionally downplay their accomplishments.
Toss humility aside and boast about the triumphs. You achieved them. Women should create online portfolios, publish blogs, grant interviews and update their LinkedIn profiles. If you have done it, why not talk about it. Women shouldn’t worry about coming off as blowhards—be proud and highlight your accomplishments.In summary, having it all is an elusive myth. Instead of striving for perfection in all areas, women should aim for growth in what matters most. Let’s remove that “ceiling” for good.
