Old Boy Clubs in the Workplace

The Data

Women in the most senior ranks across corporate America do exist, but they are shockingly few in number. Only 18 of the Fortune 500 companies had female CEOs in 2012, and yet this is an all-time record high. Women also earn less than their male counterparts. For example, the median weekly wage for women working full-time in 2010 was $669 compared with $824 for men, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a gap of 19 percent.

Why the Old Boys' Club Still Exists

The Old Boys' Club tradition is still around because it’s effective. Senior managers aren’t comfortable promoting a woman based solely on her documented work record. They want to talk to someone who knows the candidate and has seen her in action. The club tends to remain an “old boys” and not a “boys and girls” club because women who make it into the senior ranks are reluctant to promote other women for fear of being accused of gender bias. Men don't fear promoting other men because it's common practice.

Blow Your Own Horn, But Gently

Even though women tend to be very uncomfortable with highlighting their own achievements, to advance into the executive ranks, you have to learn to promote your own cause. Don’t be obnoxious about it, but make sure that your boss is aware of what you've accomplished. You can carefully disguise your bragging by asking for feedback. For example, you can say, “Now that I’ve finished this big project, I’d like to review it with you to see whether or not you think my approach was effective.” Ask for opportunities that you think you deserve. If a big presentation is coming up and you think you’re the right person to take the platform, ask your boss -- privately, of course -- for the opportunity and explain why you think you can do the best job.

Sponsorship

Like some segments of society, the “senior executive club” requires sponsorship. You can’t just knock on the door and enter, nor will it do you any good to stand on the doorstep and wait to be invited in. Find yourself a mentor, and make sure it’s someone with the connections to get you the opportunities you need. A sponsor can highlight your achievements to the top ranks and advocate for your advancement. And don't think it has to be a woman. In fact, a man may have a better network to promote your cause than a woman.