The glass ceiling : women's awareness of gender barriers in career advancement

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.