What concept describes an unseen barrier that prevents minority groups and women from achieving high organizational positions?

The glass ceiling effect is a concept that aptly describes the unseen barriers that minority groups and women encounter when attempting to ascend to higher positions within an organization. This metaphorical "ceiling" represents the social and cultural factors that prohibit these groups from advancing, despite their qualifications and capabilities. It highlights systemic issues such as discrimination, bias, and organizational practices that, consciously or unconsciously, favor certain demographics over others, particularly in leadership roles.

In contrast, work-life balance refers to the equilibrium between work responsibilities and personal life, which, while important, does not specifically address barriers to advancement. Employment equity aims to ensure fairness and representation of various demographics in the workplace, but it is more about policies than the specific barriers themselves. Workforce segmentation pertains to the division of jobs into categories, often by skill or sector but does not directly relate to the systemic barriers faced by underrepresented groups in reaching leadership positions.

The glass ceiling effect thus encapsulates the challenges faced by minority groups and women in the corporate world, making it the most relevant term to describe their struggle for promotion and recognition in high-level roles.