Hey, changemakers!
Today, let’s talk about a topic that is not only close to my heart but also vital to creating a more equal and just workplace: the advancement of women in leadership. According to a recent McKinsey & Lean In report, the advancement gap for women—especially women from the global majority —remains frustratingly wide. Women are still struggling to move into senior roles at the same pace as men, even though they’re just as qualified, if not more so. This is where women's career advancement comes into play and why we must work harder to close that gap.
Why Women's Career Advancement Matters
The data doesn't lie: women make up about 48% of entry-level employees, but as they ascend the corporate ladder, that number shrinks to just 27% in the C-suite. The gap is even wider for women from underrepresented background, with many facing barriers that their male and white female counterparts do not. Closing the advancement gap isn’t just about diversity numbers—it’s about ensuring that workplaces are fair, innovative, and successful.
As the report shows, companies that champion women's career advancement see better financial returns, more innovative cultures, and higher employee engagement. The bottom line is that investing in women leaders isn't just the right thing to do—it’s a business imperative.
The Barriers to Advancement
Why does this gap exist? The McKinsey & Lean In report highlights a few critical reasons:
Lack of sponsorship and mentorship – Women, especially women from underrepresented communities, often don’t have the same access to influential sponsors and mentors who can advocate for their career progression.
Bias in performance reviews – Women’s contributions are often undervalued compared to their male colleagues, leading to fewer promotions.
Burnout and balance – The pandemic has worsened the imbalance in care-giving responsibilities, leaving many women feeling burned out and sidelined in their careers.
How Coaching Can Help Women Close the Advancement Gap
While these barriers are systemic, there are ways women can take control of their career trajectory. One of the most effective ways is through coaching. Professional coaching offers women the opportunity to build the confidence, strategic clarity, and leadership skills needed to break through those glass ceilings.
Building Confidence
Coaching empowers women to own their value and advocate for themselves in the workplace. It’s not about being louder or more aggressive; it’s about being strategic, self-assured, and clear in what you bring to the table.
Leveraging Networks and Sponsorships
Women often don’t have the same access to powerful networks, but coaching can help you navigate this landscape. A coach can teach you how to foster strong, meaningful relationships with mentors and sponsors who will help advocate for your advancement.
Overcoming Burnout
Feeling burned out is a reality for many women, especially those juggling care-giving responsibilities with career demands. Coaching helps you create boundaries, manage stress, and develop self-care strategies so that you’re not sidelined by exhaustion. It’s about finding balance and setting yourself up for long-term success.
Time for Change
The women's career advancement gap won’t close overnight, but with intentional actions and strategies, progress can be made. Organisations need to be more proactive in supporting women leaders by eliminating bias in promotions and performance reviews and creating sponsorship programs that ensure equitable advancement for all.
Ready to Close the Gap?
If you’re a woman looking to advance in your career, now is the time to take action. I offer tailored coaching services that help women like you overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve your leadership goals. Don’t wait for the system to change—take control of your career today.
Let’s work together to close that advancement gap. Click here to schedule a session and start your journey toward leadership success. Your potential is limitless; you just need the right tools and support to unleash it.
Love,
Nicole
Source: CNN
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