5 Tips for Shattering That Glass Ceiling at Work

While women have made significant strides in obtaining workplace equality in the past fifty years, there is still a noticeable difference in salaries between men and women. According to the 2003 census, women made 77.3 cents to every dollar earned by a man in the same position. When occupations are viewed categorically, women make less than men in 99% of cases. With the statistics stacked against you, you may despair of obtaining any position of authority within your company. There are ways to beat the odds and make your work shine. Here are some tips to help you break through the glass ceiling and finally alert what you are worth.

1. Work twice as hard. While this may seem unfair, it is an unfortunate reality. Doing twice the amount of work required will put you ahead of the game and make your time twice as valuable to the company.

2. Speak up. Do not be afraid to ask for a raise or a promotion when you feel the time has come. If you do not ask chances are your boss will not volunteer these benefits. Make sure and familiarize yourself with company policy on investments and promotions and have a list of your accomplishments ready to discuss with your supervisor before venturing to ask.

3. Stay engaged. Getting stuck in a rut at work can have a noticeable effect on your performance. Continuing your education in your field can help you stay interested and has the added benefit of keeping you abreast of all changes and updated technology. This keeps you fresh and a desirable employee to your company.

4. Always remain professional. Women who betray any emotional state in the office will immediately be seen as weak. Supervisors are less likely to delegate leadership positions to women to begin with. A slight slip in your professional demeanor will almost certainly prevent any promotion. Keep your emotions in check until after business hours. Maintaining professional manner and attire at all times will help make you stand out as a sturdy and consistently reliable employee.

5. Make yourself indispensable. Always be alert to new opportunities. Keeping your eyes open and anticipating company needs in advance can help you to propose changes and advances that greatly benefit the company. Being recognized as the source of innovation can help you advance to top positions in the company. Cultivate and maintain a network outside the company that you can take with you should you ever decide to leave. Having company knowing that if they lose you they are also losing valuable clients and contacts can do nothing but help your position within the company.