Managerial Promotion: The Dynamics for Men and Women

Findings and Analysis

We used chi-square tests to see if reasons given for promotion differed for women and men. In cases where chi-squares were inappropriate, a Fisher’s exact 2 x 2 test was used. Because this was an exploratory study with a small sample, we considered differences between men and women significant if there was less than 10% probability the differences occurred by chance (Hays, 1973).

We found more commonalities than differences between women and men. All promotions were based on the combination of proven competencies and the potential for development. For both groups, credentials, experience, track record, skills, work ethic, ability to work on a team, interpersonal skills, and the potential for growth were frequently mentioned ...