What Sets You Free?

No matter what the job or field, men are more likely to reach executive leadership positions than women – 21 percent vs. 11 percent.

It’s a figure that’s remained constant for three decades, according to new Catalyst data.

What’s holding women back?

“Men have been in positions of power and authority for generations now,” says Claudette Christian, board co-chair of global legal practice Hogan Lovells.

“They have more role models, and the path to success is more defined and [easier] to emulate.”

It’s not that women don’t ask, according to Catalyst. It just doesn’t get them as far

as men. Christian adds that more men get sponsors and mentors early
in their careers – meaning “they’re seen as contenders for top-level jobs at an earlier stage than equally talented women.”

Plus, “more women voluntarily leave their careers as they near the senior executive level” due to burnout or disillusionment from the ‘work is my sole focus’ approach, says Christian.

Books like The Next Generation of Women Leaders and Break Your Own Rules show obstacles blocking women’s paths to advancement and how to overcome them, like exchanging outdated ideas of focusing on others who are stepping into the spotlight for a fresh approach.

It’s not about working 24/7 to prove yourself, but finding a way to lead a happy, fulfilling life in the spotlight by being the leader you already are.

Bonus PINK Link: Fear holds many women back – find out how to conquer it in our online exclusive.

By Caroline Cox

“Our greatest weakness is giving up. The most certain way to succeed is
always to try just one more time.” Thomas Edison