Fixing the “Broken Rung”
Let’s talk about the “broken rung” – that frustrating phenomenon where women are passed over for first-level management roles at a higher rate than men. It’s a sneaky little barrier, one that can derail career progression before it even gets started. And it’s not just a personal problem—it’s a structural issue that holds back organizations from benefiting from diverse leadership.
But here’s the good news: knowing the problem exists means we can tackle it head-on. As women entrepreneurs and leaders, we don’t have to settle for being held back. Instead, we can forge our own paths while lifting others along the way.
Here are some actionable strategies to break the broken rung:
- Mentor and Be Mentored
Women who have mentors are more likely to advance into leadership. Seek out a mentor who has navigated similar challenges, and be willing to mentor others. Leadership is a chain—strong links support everyone. - Own Your Achievements
Self-promotion isn’t bragging—it’s making sure your contributions are visible. Regularly communicate your results and the impact of your work. Practice this skill to ensure others see your leadership potential. - Advocate for Women in Your Circle
Bring other women into opportunities. Recommend them for roles, projects, or networking events. Collective progress strengthens the entire community. - Upskill Yourself
Take advantage of training and leadership development programs. Building confidence through skills and certifications makes it easier to break into leadership roles.
The broken rung is a challenge, but it’s fixable. Together, we can build ladders instead of waiting for rungs to appear. Let’s ensure the next generation of women leaders has fewer barriers to climb!
Have you experienced the broken rung? I would love to hear about your experience and how it impacted you in your leadership journey – jillian@wisewomenleadership.com