The McKinsey Podcast
When the career ladder breaks for women—and how to succeed anyway
Mar 27, 2025
Lareina Yee, a Senior Partner at McKinsey and co-author of "The Broken Rung," dives into the stark disparities in career advancement between men and women. The discussion reveals that for every 100 men promoted, only 81 women ascend, underlining systemic obstacles. Yee emphasizes the importance of male allies and inclusive workplace environments. She shares actionable strategies for women to excel, including networking and proactive planning, while also touching on the challenges of balancing motherhood with career ambitions.
26:56
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Quick takeaways
- The 'broken rung' phenomenon highlights systemic barriers preventing women, especially women of color, from receiving equitable promotions early in their careers.
- Accumulating 'experience capital' through mentorship and strategic networking is essential for women to overcome career interruptions and advance professionally.
Deep dives
The Challenge of the Broken Rung
The concept of the 'broken rung' highlights the barriers women face at the very beginning of their careers, particularly related to promotions. Although women make up 48% of entry-level positions in corporate America, they are significantly less likely to be promoted compared to their male counterparts, with statistics showing that for every 100 men promoted, only 81 women are elevated. This disparity is even more pronounced for women of color, illustrating systemic issues that prevent women from ascending in their careers. Understanding this broken rung is crucial as it empowers women to recognize and navigate the challenges they might face in their professional journeys.
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