In 1986 The Wall Street journal first referenced the term ‘glass ceiling’ which alluded to the invisible barrier preventing women from reaching ultimate success. Come 2013, it is time to smash it.
For almost three decades, the glass ceiling has prevented women from reaching their full potential in business. It is said that it’s a stereotype that men created and – according to some – women perpetuated.
The truth is that the glass ceiling limits both sexes but the good news is that there is a different perspective to adopt for individuals interested in smashing the mould.
If you want to break the glass ceiling ask yourself: how do you view opportunity? Are you a glass half full or half empty sort of person? Do you view problems or the potential to change? Do you seek solutions or are you wired to only identify risks?
It is important to assess your current business situation within the terms of the glass ceiling before you can take steps to destroy it. Ask yourself the following:
- Why do I believe that the glass ceiling exists? Identify the barriers and limitations within your current position. Do they really exist, or is it just your assumption?
- What is blocking me? This could range from a company’s’ internal structure to its history (e.g. they’ve only promoted men/women to certain roles), and the individual decision makers.
- Why are they blocking me? What is the reason behind the decision makers limiting my growth? What is their motivation behind keeping you down low on the corporate ladder?
- Are they actually reinforcing the glass ceiling? Often the perception of the glass ceiling is stronger than the reality of an actual limitation. Sadly, many accept they can only reach a certain level within the company and it is simply not true.
- Don’t take it personally. Business is business, and decisions should be made in the interest of the company’s future. If you are demoted, or your progression through the ranks is at a standstill, don’t take offence, even if you think it has something to do with you as a person. Blaming the glass ceiling will only hurt your career. Always be prepared for the worst (e.g. leaving a company that hinders your development) by continually marketing your brand.
- Befriend the blocks. Typically, the person in the position just above yours is your roadblock to success. Try and connect with them, and if not – focus on forging a business relationship with the person above them, the person who truly holds the key to your future success. As the saying goes “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer”.
- Increase your profile. Develop your own skill set and public profile to the point that you become indispensable to your company and colleagues. By adding value to your profile, you are going to help the careers of the people above you through association.
- Most importantly: stay focused. Don’t look back or sideways and just keep going, right to the top.
Here are three things you can do today to chip away at the illusive glass ceiling: