We all know the narrative: work hard, climb the ladder, reach the top. But for women, that ladder often has a missing step – the broken rung. This isn’t about the glass ceiling at the very top; it’s the hurdle many women face early in their careers, preventing them from making that crucial first step into management.
Think about it: women are often hired at the same rate as men, and sometimes even promoted to manager at similar rates. But the bottleneck happens right there. Fewer women get that initial promotion to manager compared to their male peers. This “broken rung” means fewer women in the pipeline for senior leadership down the line.
So, what can you do about it? The good news is, understanding the problem is the first step towards smashing it. Here’s some straight-talking career advice, inspired by the insights into this “broken rung”:
1. Own Your Ambition (Loudly!):
Sometimes, societal expectations can subtly nudge women away from overtly expressing their career goals. Ditch that. Be clear about your aspirations. Let your manager and colleagues know you’re aiming for that next level. Volunteer for leadership opportunities, even small ones. Make your ambition visible.
2. Build Your Network Strategically:
Networking isn’t just polite coffee chats; it’s about building meaningful connections that can advocate for you. Seek out mentors and sponsors – people who will not only offer advice but also actively champion your growth and put your name forward for opportunities. Don’t just network with other women (though that’s crucial for support and shared experiences!), connect with influential individuals across genders and departments.
3. Highlight Your Achievements (No More Hiding Your Light!):
Women are often socialized to be more modest about their accomplishments. It’s time to break that habit. When discussing your work, confidently highlight your contributions and the positive impact you’ve made. Use data and specific examples to showcase your skills and results. Don’t wait for someone else to notice – make sure your achievements are seen and recognized.
4. Seek Out Sponsorship, Not Just Mentorship:
Mentors offer guidance and support, which is invaluable. But sponsors go a step further. They have influence and will actively advocate for your promotion and opportunities behind closed doors. Identify potential sponsors – senior leaders who believe in your potential – and cultivate those relationships.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask (For What You Deserve!):
Whether it’s a stretch assignment, a chance to lead a project, or that promotion you’ve earned – don’t be afraid to ask for it. Women are sometimes less likely to negotiate or put themselves forward. Know your worth, do your research, and confidently articulate why you’re ready for the next step.
6. Find Your Allies (Men Included!):
This isn’t a battle fought alone. Seek out allies – both men and women – who understand the importance of gender equity and will actively support your advancement. Building a supportive network creates a stronger foundation for everyone.
The Broken Rung doesn’t have to be a career roadblock. By understanding the systemic challenges and proactively adopting these strategies, women can shatter that barrier and pave the way for greater representation in leadership. It’s time to step boldly, speak confidently, and claim your rightful place at every level. The climb might have its hurdles, but you’ve got the strength to overcome them.
Click here to read more: Career advice for women from “The Broken Rung” | McKinsey
