Women In Leadership: Reducing Barriers And Expanding Opportunities For Career Progression

Build Inclusive Pipelines, Boost Mobility, and Drive Retention for Organizational Success

Organizations are navigating a period of intense competition for talent, demographic shifts, and evolving expectations around diversity and inclusion. Persistent labor shortages and the underrepresentation of women in senior roles are prompting leaders to rethink how they build and sustain effective leadership pipelines. The SHRM Linkage Women in Leadership executive summary explores how organizations are responding to these challenges and where they are focusing their efforts to unlock the potential of women leaders in the years ahead.

Drawing on insights from thousands of leaders, the summary highlights the top priorities shaping talent strategy: early identification and development of future leaders, expanding access to leadership development programs, fostering internal mobility, and implementing executive sponsorship initiatives. The research underscores the importance of creating clear pathways for advancement, building inclusive cultures, and ensuring women have equal opportunities to grow and succeed.

This summary provides actionable guidance for executives seeking to strengthen their leadership pipelines, retain top talent, and foster a more equitable workplace. Access the report to learn how leading organizations are reducing barriers, expanding opportunities, and shaping the future of women’s leadership—and discover what these strategies mean for your organization.