Programs
“Companies that unleash the potential of their Women Leaders will OWN the competition”
How Thick Is the Glass Ceiling?
Women still struggle in their attempts to attain Executive Management positions. Although women, ages 25-69, make up 53% of the US population, they held only 5.1% of the executive management positions in the top 500 companies.International Labor Organization (ILO) report,
“Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling: Women in Management”
Obstacles to Winning the Glass Ceiling War
- Men are established and secured in most senior roles, and have been for hundreds of years.
- Women are so busy proving their worth that they don’t seek out mentors, feedback, or possible advocates.
- Women who are goal oriented and plan their career can neglect key relationships and engage in politically damaging power struggles.
- Women who have the same “edge” as a man are often misunderstood and maligned.
- Women are lacking the necessary skill to deal with the 85% of their colleagues who are conflict avoidant.
A study conducted by University of California-Davis, October 2007, of the 400 largest public companies in the state of California found that:
- Only 9 percent of Santa Clara County-based companies have elevated a woman to a top executive post, a lower share than any other county in the state
- Of 183 companies filled 304 directors, they appointed women for just 16 percent of the posts
- Nearly half the companies have no women on the board. One-third have just one
- The electronics industry ranks last among 16 subgroups, with women filling only 2.9 percent of executive jobs
How Do You Win the Game?
Women who win have the right perspectives, behaviors, relationships, and skills. They know how to level the playing field without alienating others. They create a plan, identify the power and influence structure, and improve their ability to lead and produce results. They foster and maintain key relationships, acquire mentors, and get past their denial about internal politics and learn to positively engage. Sound easy? It’s not.
How We Help
Jean Hollands and Laura Steck, GLC’s Founder and its President, are pioneers in championing the cause of Women’s Leadership. Together they wrote the book, “Same Game, Different Rules: How to Get Ahead Without Being a Bully Broad, Ice Queen,” or “Ms. Understood”, where they identify 25 Rules for Success.
Our programs give clients the perspective, skills, and expert consultation needed to navigate through the obstacles and position themselves for greater responsibility and executive roles.