Glass ceiling with obstacles: a study of work engagement and work empowerment of women in the hospitality industry of New Zealand.

AbstractThis study investigates the pervasive issue of the glass ceiling and its impact on women’s career advancement in the hospitality industry. Despite incremental advances in gender equality, the glass ceiling remains a tenacious barrier, effectively stifling women’s progression into senior managerial and executive roles. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of the glass ceiling on women’s work engagement and empowerment within the hospitality sector. Gender-specific obstacles are also examined as a mediator to provide more profound understanding of the phenomenon of glass ceiling. The study aims to contribute to the existing academic discourse while proffering pragmatic solutions for organizations aiming to redress these inequities. Methodologically, this study employs a quantitative approach, incorporating a survey administered to female employees across varying roles within the hospitality industry in New Zealand. Findings demonstrate negative impact of glass ceiling on female employees’ levels of work engagement and empowerment. Moreover, the study identifies gender-specific obstacles as mediating factors that amplify this negative correlation. Given the evidence collated, the study underscores the exigency of targeted interventions aimed at cultivating an inclusive and equitable work environment. Such an initiative is not merely an ethical prerogative but constitutes a business imperative, poised to enhance both employee well-being and organizational success within the hospitality sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]