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Gender Promotion Gaps and Career Aspirations

Author

Listed:
  • Ghazala Azmat

    (Department of Economics, Sciences Po and CEPR, 75007 Paris, France)

  • Vicente Cuñat

    (London School of Economics and CEPR, London WC2A 2AE, United Kingdom)

  • Emeric Henry

    (Department of Economics, Sciences Po and CEPR, 75007 Paris, France)

Abstract

Using a representative survey of U.S. lawyers, we document a sizeable gender gap in early partnership aspirations, which explains half of the later gender promotion gap. We further document that the correlation between aspirations and effort provides a “mechanical link” between aspirations and promotion. Early workplace experiences, such as harassment and demeaning comments, are linked to promotion aspirations. Moreover, early aspirations provide insight into eventual promotion outcomes that goes beyond what can be drawn only from expectations. Our study highlights that measuring aspirations and adapting the corporate culture that shapes them are key components for firms to improve workplace environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Ghazala Azmat & Vicente Cuñat & Emeric Henry, 2025. "Gender Promotion Gaps and Career Aspirations," Management Science, INFORMS, vol. 71(3), pages 2127-2141, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ormnsc:v:71:y:2025:i:3:p:2127-2141
    DOI: 10.1287/mnsc.2023.00715
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