The Journey of Women's Career to Top Management: A Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA

Abstract

Women’s involvement in top management is vital in producing positive impacts on the company’s performance. It can be seen in their focus on managerial aspects, social relationships and financial affairs of the company. However, the career progression of the women in attaining top management positions is often seen as slow and unstable. Therefore, this systematic literature reviews the factors influencing women’s career to top management. This study is done using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) methodology through identification, screening, and eligibility process. This method allows discovery of new dimension of knowledge by using various group data for further research. This study chooses articles from two primary databases: Scopus and Web of Science (WoS); and one secondary database which is Google Scholar. Based on thematic analysis, eight factors were identified in this study that will support women’s journey to the top management: (i) work-life balance; (ii) organizational support; (iii) sponsorship; (iv) mentoring; (v) soft skills; (vi) job experience; (vii) social networks; and (viii) career strategy. However, more in-depth studies are needed on women’s career development process are needed to assist the development goals that has been formulated for women in the country. An efficient solution is needed as the issue of women lacking participation in top management has been going on for a long time. Therefore, this study can serve as a reference point for stakeholders who are involved in formulation of policies involving women’s developments to enhance the role of women in the country.