ABSTRACT
The claim for vision as an essential requirement for entering top management teams (TMTs) underpins the context of the executive glass ceiling, and gives shape to four obstacles women face in upward mobility. First, Women are seen as being lower in vision than men by their male peers. Second, women are perceived as being stronger in relationship oriented skills, which are of low priority in top-level leadership skills. Third, women are seen as being stronger in transactional and organizational skills. Fourth, the so-called 'female qualities' of relationship and organizational skills are seen as more important at lower levels of the managerial hierarchy. Mentoring and sponsorship are particularly important for women, especially since they lag behind men when it comes to promotion opportunities. Research found that women are less likely to be promoted at the same rate as men; however, with a sponsor, women are just as likely to be promoted as men.
