Turkish Women Managers' Strategies to Overcome the Glass Ceiling

What is it about?

The study explores strategies employed by Turkish female managers to overcome the "glass ceiling," a metaphorical barrier hindering women's advancement to senior management roles. Despite an increase in female workforce participation, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions. The research identifies key strategies in balancing work-life and family, navigating professional life, and advancing career paths. These strategies, derived from interviews and analyzed via MAXQDA software, offer guidance for women aspiring to leadership and insights for human resource management and organizational culture development. The study highlights the importance of addressing societal gender biases, organizational culture, and personal sacrifices to empower women in business leadership.

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Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash

Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research is important because it addresses the persistent issue of the glass ceiling that prevents women from advancing to senior management roles, despite being increasingly present in the workforce. By focusing on Turkish female managers, the study highlights the specific cultural and organizational challenges they face and the strategies they employ to overcome these barriers. This work is crucial for informing human resources practices, organizational culture reforms, and leadership development programs aimed at achieving gender equality in corporate leadership. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for women around the world facing similar challenges, offering them strategies to navigate and break through the glass ceiling. Key Takeaways: 1. Gender Representation: The study emphasizes the underrepresentation of women in corporate leadership despite their growing numbers in the workforce, underscoring the need for systemic change to address gender discrimination and bias. 2. Strategic Approaches: Turkish female managers employ strategies in work-life balance, professional life, and career advancement to overcome the glass ceiling, which can inspire and guide other women aiming for leadership positions. 3. Organizational Impact: By identifying strategies that organizations can support, the research provides a roadmap for human resource management and organizational culture designers to foster an inclusive environment that supports women's career progression.