Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review many of the diverse metaphors and labels
that are used to highlight insights into glass ceilings – the obstacles hindering women
reaching the top levels of organizations.
Design/methodology/approach - The development of metaphors and labels related to
theories about the causes and consequences of glass ceilings are discussed. They are classified
according to whether or not they infer women play a role in creating glass ceilings.
Findings - We conclude most metaphor-linked explanations focus on discrimination and
prejudice towards women seeking leadership positions. A small number of metaphors target
characteristics of women as causes for the gender inequality in leadership and upper
Practical implications – Even though there is a plethora of metaphors highlighting obstacles
and prejudice against women leaders and several metaphors have been part of the popular
lexicon for at least three decades, metaphors do not appear to have greatly helped to quicken
the dismantling of glass ceilings.
Originality/value - This is a unique approach to reviewing literature in this area.
Keywords - Glass ceilings, Metaphors, Leadership, Gender differences, Women's careers