Stumbling blocks to career advancement: A study with reference to working women in Chennai city

Abstract

Career advancement can imply a vertical movement; in other words, upward mobility
in an organization. It means that a person moves onwards in this work life, by means of a
promotion, a transfer or a new job in a higher position in another company. It may also involve
a lateral move with more responsibilities. In the dual-career family, one of the members
especially women might face the problem of career advancement due to the transfer of the
spouse, over-work load, etc., The present study observed various impediments for development of
career advancement. Since women have more responsibilities in family and to do job as well,
hence, they are only targeted for the study. The researchers attempted to analyse the problems
faced by working women for their career development. Lack of career guidance, and minimal
provision of training and education programs lead to gaps in some career development
initiatives. Women considered that though both men and women are treated equally, there are
certain things which hinder them to develop their career plan. A sample 120 working women are
selected in Chennai city. Data have been tested with the help of statistical tools such as
percentage analysis, Friedman Rank Test and Kruskal Wallis Test. The study gives some valid
suggestions for overcoming barriers to career advancement.