Women are leaning out in the workplace: Sheryl Sandberg

Published: Monday, December 15, 2025 at 8:48 am

Women in the Workplace: A Shift in Ambition

A recent study reveals a significant shift in the career aspirations of women in the workplace. The report, conducted by LeanIn.org and McKinsey & Co., indicates that women are less interested in seeking promotions compared to their male counterparts, reversing a trend observed over the past decade.

The study, which surveyed over 9,500 employees between July and August, found a notable gap in ambition levels across different career stages. While a majority of women at entry-level (69%), mid-career (82%), and senior executive levels (84%) still express a desire for advancement, these figures are lower than those reported by men at similar career points (80%, 86%, and 92%, respectively).

Sheryl Sandberg, the former Meta Platforms Inc. executive and author of "Lean In," suggests that the change stems from a lack of support from employers. The survey revealed that approximately 20% of companies surveyed lack specific programs to support women's career advancement. This lack of support, coupled with broader cultural shifts, is causing women to re-evaluate their definition of success.

Experts point to factors such as the pandemic and rising childcare costs as contributing to this shift. Women are increasingly questioning whether the effort required to climb the corporate ladder is worthwhile in systems that haven't adapted to support them. The study also highlights that women are less likely to have sponsors at work and feel less safe taking risks and speaking up compared to their male colleagues.

The report recommends that companies intensify their efforts to provide equal career support for women, broaden talent pools, improve sponsorship and inclusion resources, and enhance employee resource groups.

BNN's Perspective:

The findings of this study are concerning, as they suggest a potential regression in gender equality within the workplace. While individual choices and priorities are always valid, the data indicates that systemic issues, such as a lack of employer support and inadequate resources, are hindering women's career progression. Addressing these issues through policy changes and corporate initiatives is crucial to ensure a fair and inclusive work environment for all.

Keywords: women in the workplace, career advancement, promotions, gender equality, LeanIn.org, McKinsey & Co., Sheryl Sandberg, workplace culture, childcare costs, sponsorship, inclusion, employee resource groups, ambition gap, corporate support

Full Story