Women managing women: Intersections between hierarchical relationships, career development and gender equity

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the intersections between the way women’s careers develop, the hierarchical relationships between women and the resulting implications for gender equity in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

While a considerable body of research exists on gender in the workplace, the intersection between the way in which women ' s careers develop and the influence hierarchical relationships between women in the workplace have on that career development are under-researched. This paper examines existing relevant research, discusses the implications of these intersecting areas and raises areas for future academic research, as well as the development of organizational practice.

Findings

The nature of the hierarchical relationships between women in the workplace is an important but under-researched factor when considering the career development of women. Delving into the experiences of women managers and employees, both good and bad, enables a deeper understanding of the role these relationships play in shaping the careers of women. From this, personal and organizational strategies can be developed that enhance workplace relationships and the career development of women.

Originality/value

This paper encourages academics and practitioners to critically consider the connections between hierarchical workplace relationships and career development as part of organizational practice and further gender equity research.

Citation

Hurst, J., Leberman, S. and Edwards, M. (2016), "Women managing women: Intersections between hierarchical relationships, career development and gender equity", Gender in Management, Vol. 31 No. 1, pp. 61-74. https://doi.org/10.1108/GM-03-2015-0018