Exploration Of The Glass Ceiling On Women's Career Progression: A Case Of Auditing Profession In Malaysia

In Malaysian context, the qualitative exploration highlights the auditing profession and the representation of women within it. The study delves into the career progression of women in auditing occupations, shedding light on their significant under-representation, particularly among Malay and Indian...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Aswini, Arumugam
Format: Thesis
Language:English
English
English
Published: 2024
Subjects:
Online Access:https://etd.uum.edu.my/11304/1/depositpermission-s829364.pdf
https://etd.uum.edu.my/11304/2/s829364_01.pdf
https://etd.uum.edu.my/11304/3/s829364_02.pdf
https://etd.uum.edu.my/11304/
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Summary:In Malaysian context, the qualitative exploration highlights the auditing profession and the representation of women within it. The study delves into the career progression of women in auditing occupations, shedding light on their significant under-representation, particularly among Malay and Indian women, in upper management levels within audit firms. The primary objective is to understand the multifaceted challenges hindering women's career progression to top management levels and to uncover if there is an ethnic-related glass ceiling experience faced by non-Chinese women in the auditing occupation. Employing interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study involves nine participants selected through purposive sampling and snowballing. The research comprises semi-structured interviews, conducted through phone calls, face-to-face meetings, and virtual interviews via Webex and Google Meet. The findings reveal three superordinate themes. The work-family theme explains challenges related to marriage and a hectic work style, emphasizing the delicate balance required between professional and familial responsibilities. The individual theme explores self-determination, ambition, and professional qualifications, emphasizing women's power and qualifications in advancing their careers. The minorities in auditing theme contributes novel insights into the experiences of Malay and Indian women, particularly focusing on subthemes of business clients and language barriers, and how these factors intersect with career advancement and opportunities. In conclusion, this study provides valuable and comprehensive insights into the complex relationship between work, family, individual choices, and the unique experiences of minorities in the auditing profession. Identification of potential glass ceiling elements within these themes highlights the urgent need for inclusive policies and practices, which can support women in reaching top management levels.