The journey to the C-suite is often filled with twists and turns, particularly for women who aspire to reach the highest levels of leadership. As I delve into research for my Doctorate, I’ve been reflecting on the challenges that women face in advancing to executive roles. However, while there are certainly obstacles, I want to focus on the positives: the allies, progress and resilience that many of us have experienced along the way.
The Road to Executive Leadership: What the Research Shows
Research consistently highlights a disparity in how quickly men and women progress to C-suite positions, even when they hold similar qualifications and experience. Women are often promoted at a slower rate than their male counterparts and many face the infamous “glass ceiling” that limits their upward mobility. According to McKinsey & Company and LeanIn.Org’s Women in the Workplace report, for every 100 men promoted to manager, fewer than 90 women are promoted. This gap widens as we move up the corporate ladder, affecting the number of women who eventually reach C-suite positions (LeanIn.Org & McKinsey & Company, 2023).
Despite these challenges, it is heartening to see the focus on change. Organizations are implementing leadership development programs specifically designed to support women, providing access to mentorship and more importantly, sponsorship: those key advocates who champion a woman’s potential behind closed doors. Initiatives like these are slowly but surely helping to even the playing field, ensuring that talented women get the recognition and opportunities they deserve (Haines & McKeown, 2023).
The Importance of Allies
While my journey has not always been easy, I have been fortunate to have men in my career who saw my potential, encouraged me, and helped pave my way forward. These allies played a crucial role in my growth, giving me a seat at the table and ensuring my voice was heard. It is important to recognize the power of supportive allies, regardless of gender, in creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Yet, not every experience has been positive. I’ve faced moments when my expertise was dismissed, where I was called “honey” or spoken down to simply for sharing my perspective. These moments were not easy, and they served as reminders of the biases that still exist today. But instead of letting these experiences define me, I used them as fuel to continue pushing forward to prove that women belong in every room where decisions are made. I am also mindful that men face their own adversities and every individual’s journey is uniquely challenging.
Resilience and Progress
It’s encouraging to see progress being made, as more women break barriers and take on leadership roles. We are in a pivotal time where discussions around equity, mentorship, and inclusive leadership are gaining momentum. As I continue my studies, the data shows an undeniable truth: change is happening. It might be slower than we would like, but progress is being made, one step at a time (Fitong Ketchiwou & van der Walt, 2023).
Let us celebrate every win, whether it’s a new promotion, a supportive mentor, or an organization making real changes to close the gender gap. Together, we can create a future where a woman’s journey to the C-suite is marked not by obstacles, but by opportunity.
Staying Positive on Purpose
If there is one takeaway from my journey and research, it is this: Positivity is a powerful tool. It helps us persevere when things get tough and reminds us of the importance of lifting each other up. I am grateful for the men and women who have supported me, and I remain committed to paving the way for those who come after me.
To every woman striving for the C-suite: keep going. The world needs your leadership, your perspective and your voice.
What Are You Seeing?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you experienced similar challenges or have an ally who helped you along the way? What changes do you see happening, or still needed, in your organization? Join the conversation in the comments below and share your experiences. Let us inspire and learn from each other!
Thanks for Reading!
-RoBo
References
Fitong Ketchiwou, G., & van der Walt, F. (2023). The role of personal factors and skills development in women’s career advancement. South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences, 26(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v26i1.5120
Haines, A. C., & McKeown, E. (2023). Exploring perceived barriers for advancement to leadership positions in healthcare: a thematic synthesis of women’s experiences. Journal of Health Organization and Management, 37(3), 360-378. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHOM-02-2022-0053
LeanIn.Org & McKinsey & Company. (2023). Women in the Workplace 2023. https://womenintheworkplace.com
Living Positive on Purpose 