Most top-level corporate cultures have evolved around white, heterosexual,
American males, who tend to hire and promote people who look, act, and think
like them. Many organizations were originally created by and for men, and the
prevailing work practices and patterns of social interaction tend to privilege
men and disadvantage women, often in subtle ways.30 One study supports the idea
that in organizations with strong male hierarchies, women are less likely than
men to advance to higher-level positions. In addition, women are more likely to
advance if they demonstrate traits associated with masculinity, such as assertiveness,
achievement-orientation, and focus on material success.31 Compatibility in
thought and behavior plays an important role at higher levels of organizations.
Among women who have managed to break through the glass ceiling, fully 96
percent said adapting to a predominantly white male culture was necessary for
their success.32