Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Can Women Reach the Top of America's Largest Corporations?

This far-reaching study of female executives indicates progress in their status, but not enough in light of equal employment laws. Although women have reached management levels, only a miniscule minority in the Fortune 500 companies hold top positions1.7%. Frank responses from women and their male associates interviewed here illustrate factors that work for and against those trying to break sexist barriersthe glass ceiling between women and the top. Capable women can be limited as well by lack of drive, failure to get and give help or exhaustion caused by their responsibilities as wives and mothers. The authors' findings are buttressed by statistics, as well as psychological/behavioral evaluations of men and women candidates for promotion. The book also speculates that females will advance further when they achieve recognition as individuals in their own right. The authors are on the staff of the Center for Creative Leadership, a nonprofit institution headquartered in Greensboro, N.C. (July 1)