Windows in the ceiling ... leadership advice and strategies from successful female executives

Abstract

This thesis provides a framework for understanding specific strategies and personal characteristics women can utilize to enable them to reach the top levels of an organization. In order to do so, current literature was reviewed that was written primarily from a female perspective, and civilian women in high-grade positions working for the Army were interviewed to obtain their own personal strategies, personal characteristics, and opinions regarding the glass-ceiling concept and how to achieve success. The goal is to help break down the invisible barriers to success (or glass-ceiling) and help women achieve the success they desire. In a world where powerful women are still comparatively rare, women's success stories are welcome.