Female leaders: The barriers to leadership and how to break them
In this section of the report we look at the role of female leaders within businesses, the issues they face in career progression and suggest potential solutions.
Significant barriers prevent women from progressing to leadership positions. 90% of female leaders surveyed identified professional barriers and 62% recognised personal barriers. Professional barriers are defined as obstacles beyond an individual’s control, typically stemming from governmental or organisational policies. In contrast, personal barriers, such as an individual’s confidence and self-belief, are within their control.
Top six professional barriers preventing women from progressing to leadership positions.
Top four personal barriers preventing women from progressing to leadership positions.
Top six initiatives that would make is easier for women to progress to leadership positions.
Professional barriers: Policies and procedures outside of the individual’s control
Personal barriers: Defined as those within the individual’s control