Human Resources Policies and Practices for Advancing Women in Canadian Organisations(1)

During the past twenty years there has been a dramatic increase in the number of women who are pursuing managerial and professional careers. Many of these women have prepared themselves for careers by undertaking university education in professional schools such as business, accountancy and law. Women are gaining the necessary experience and paying their dues. Despite these academic credentials, and increased experience, women are failing to move into the ranks of senior management (Burke & McKenn, 1992). This pattern has been observed in both public and private sector organisations in all developed countries (Adler & Israeli, 1988; Morrison & Von Glinow, 1990).