Reference no: EM132692059

The glass ceiling labyrinth does seem to be lifting in some organizations, making it easier for women to navigate to higher positions. According to Northouse (2018), some of the reasons revolve around organizational changes such as business culture; companies are beginning to value diversity and flexibility within workers and using women to bridge leadership gaps (sec. 15.2). Women that know about the labyrinth are the ones that can make a difference, whether that be in home life or in the business world. Women can make adjustments with life routines to not be classified as doing on household chores. Women and men should be able to share the responsibilities of work-life balance. Northouse also states that women can circumvent barriers by starting their own business ventures (sec., 15.2).

Transformational leadership qualities may also help women overcome obstacles within the work environment if they can use the leadership approach to their advantage. "Women are generally thought to be more intuitive and emphatic than their male counterparts". (Downey et al., 2006, p. 253). This skill can be useful in an intuitive based decision-making process. Having the knowledge and skills to overcome the labyrinth obstacles is one key element in moving up the organizational ladder.

I feel that it is both up to the organization as well as the individual to change the mindset that women cannot be high ranking leaders. History had shown that when women were employed in an organization that they were hired for support roles rather than leadership roles (Jogulu& Wood, 2006, p. 239). Women have to have a strong will to set their minds on a goal and do what it takes to achieve that goal. It is not unheard of that a woman and be the top leader of a company so it can be accomplished. Look at Mary Barra; she was the first woman to become CEO of a mega car company (Time, n.d.). This is not to say that it will be easy to achieve, but we can see there is hope to achieve greatness. Organizations must also make changes in the process of hierarchy. It is not only a man's world in the business realm. Both women and men can perform a job well. It's important to keep that in mind when creating a sound business culture that recognizes diversity, inclusion, innovation, and abilities rather than gender.