The Broken Rung: Why Women Are Denied Promotions

While the glass ceiling has been a well-documented barrier for women in the workplace, a newer and equally insidious obstacle has emerged – the ‘broken rung.’ This concept highlights the critical issue of women being denied promotions at the first step of the corporate ladder, preventing them from even reaching a position where they can challenge the glass ceiling. This phenomenon is a fundamental stumbling block to achieving gender equality in the workplace.

The Broken Rung: A Crucial Barrier

The broken rung refers to the initial step on the career progression ladder, often the first promotion from entry-level to managerial positions. Statistics reveal that women are disproportionately overlooked for these early promotions, severely hindering their career trajectory. A report by McKinsey & Company found that for every 100 men promoted, only 85 women are encouraged at the first step, effectively sabotaging their chances of advancement from the outset.

The Consequences

This broken rung has far-reaching consequences for women and the broader workforce. Denied early promotions, women find it harder to catch up with their male peers, leading to a persistent gender gap in leadership positions. This gap trickles down, influencing company culture, policies, and decision-making processes.

Root Causes

Several factors contribute to the perpetuation of the broken rung. Biases in hiring and promotion decisions, lack of mentorship and sponsorship, and an absence of clear and transparent promotion criteria play a role. Additionally, workplace cultures that do not adequately support work-life balance or fail to address implicit biases exacerbate this issue.

Addressing The Broken Rung

To rectify this imbalance, companies must take proactive steps. Implementing transparent promotion criteria, offering mentorship and sponsorship programs, and training on bias and inclusion are crucial steps. Moreover, organizations should encourage a culture that values diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where women can thrive.