In employment situations, the glass ceiling is a metaphor. It simply illustrates the idea that it is more difficult for some workers to climb the corporate ladder. They feel trapped at a lower level within the hierarchy of the company as if they are being held back by a glass ceiling.
The use of the word glass is important because it denotes that this ceiling is an invisible barrier. Technically speaking, this employee should be able to gain some level of advancement. So what is it that is holding them back?
Discrimination
Often, the answer just lies in some form of discrimination.
For instance, a female employee may request raises or apply for promotions within the company. She is experienced and successful, and she has all of the correct education and training. Despite that, however, male employees are given all of the promotions and raises.
The female employee may never be told directly that she’s being discriminated against. After all, most employers know that gender discrimination is just as illegal as age discrimination, religious discrimination or racial discrimination. None of these things can be used as reasons to deny someone a job or a promotion.
But the pattern of behavior shows what is really happening. The employer may attempt to gaslight the employee, perhaps making up reasons why the employee was passed over for those career advancements. But if it keeps happening over and over, it becomes clear that the glass ceiling is holding her back.
What can you do?
If you find yourself in this position, be sure you know exactly what legal steps you can take. Discrimination is illegal and can have a major impact on your career.
