Glass ceiling and its negative affects on working women's performance and morale

Abstract

The Glass Ceiling refers to the invisible, artificial barriers that prevent qualified individuals-often women - from reaching their potential. These women can "see" the path, but tantalizingly, invisible "roadblocks" prevent access. The basic aim of doing this research project was to find out to what extent does glass ceiling exists in our culture and how does it affect workingwomen's attitude and morale. This Research examines the extent to which the lower rank of women than men can be explained by their qualifications, gender, and length of service. The results provide strong evidence to conclude that in the working environment there are significant and considerable gender differences in rank, not explained by these qualifications, and that these gender discrepancies in rank did not appreciably diminish in the recent years despite the increased participation of women in the workforce. Like catching a glimpse of a rainbow refracted through glass, experiencing a glass ceiling may all depend on where you're standing. Hence it has a different meaning and importance for different people. Nobody can deny that in recent years, women have made tremendous inroads into the business world; many more will certainly follow. Women are not yet, however, an overwhelming presence on corporate boards or in the executive suite. Women have not achieved equality with men in any state. All women continue to face important obstacles to achieving economic, political and social parity. Women (employed full-time, year-round) earn less than men. Their chances of promotion are far less than men and the work they are given does not match their qualifications. This discrimination, no doubt affects women's attitude towards work and their career development. Women are equally educated, have equal capabilities to work, are more loyal to their work and still they face discrimination and unfairness. A lot has been written and talked about glass ceiling. But in reality, our culture has not been able to shatter glass ceiling completely. It still exists. Offices and organizations still give more power to men. Women still are considered the low rankers. They are just there--- their full potential is not being utilized. Its about time organizations should realize that failing to utilize the talents of half of one's workforce makes no good business sense.