Abstract
This study explores women’s awareness of gender barriers in career advancement. The
research sample consisted of 5 women, who were employed in the financial sector.
Participants were interviewed on a one to one basis. The transcribed data was analysed using
critical discourse analysis. Results showed that participants had a high level of awareness of
gender barriers in the workplace. Participants’ understanding of gender barriers were shown
to be consistent with pervious research. None of the participants identified a senior
management position as a career goal. Results suggest that gendered barriers to advancement
and the perceived personal sacrifice inherent in senior management positions resulted in
women downsizing their career aspirations.
