ABOVE THE GLASS CEILING - A COMPARISON OF MATCHED SAMPLES OF FEMALE AND MALE EXECUTIVES

In this study the authors compare career and work experiences of execu tive women and men. Female (n = 51) and male (n = 56) financial servic es executives in comparable jobs were studied through archival informa tion on organizational outcomes and career histories, and survey measu res of work experiences. Similarities were found in several organizati onal outcomes, such as compensation, and many work attitudes. Importan t differences were found, however, with women having less authority, r eceiving fewer stock options, and having less international mobility t han men. Women at the highest executive levels reported more obstacles than lower level women. The gender differences coupled with women's l ower satisfaction with future career opportunities raise questions abo ut whether women are truly above the glass ceiling or have come up aga inst a 2nd, higher ceiling.