Overcoming the glass ceiling for women in the South African media industry

Abstract

The glass ceiling is a widely researched concept that refers to an existence of invisible barriers that prevent women from reaching senior management roles. In this research titled “Overcoming the glass ceiling for women in the South African Media Industry”, the researcher‟s intention was twofold. Firstly it was to assess which barriers contribute to the existence of a glass ceiling specific to the South African Media industry. Secondly, it was to identify and understand which strategies are being used to overcome the glass ceiling within the South African Media industry. A qualitative research technique was utilised. The sample comprised of 15 women who operate at both middle and senior management levels within the South African Media Industry. The women identified currently work for nine different which enabled the researcher to gain insights from a variety of experiences and views. To ensure that the interviews were robust and engaging all interviews were conducted on a face-to-face basis. To analyse findings, a thematic content analysis style was utilised. The findings are that a glass ceiling exists within the South Africa Media industry. There are, however, different degrees of the prevalence of barriers. The three most prominent barriers experienced by the sample are the old boys‟ network, work – life balance, as well as the double- bind. In examining the effective strategies, the findings are that women are establishing measures at home to ensure that there is balance in the work/ family lives. An effective tactic is the implementation of a leadership style that is collaborative in nature. The researcher recommends that organisations should establish, review and implement policies that are gender friendly. In addition, there needs to be an increased awareness on the concept of the glass ceiling. On the other hand, women are also encouraged to continue investing in their social capitals in the form of networks and mentorship arrangements. Through these suggestions, a shift should occur, leading to more women occupying senior management roles, which should ultimately lead to overcoming the glass ceiling.