What term refers to the invisible barriers that prevent minorities and women from advancing in business, irrespective of their qualifications?

The term "glass ceiling" refers specifically to the subtle yet powerful obstacles that hinder the advancement of minorities and women in the workplace, despite their qualifications or capabilities. It symbolizes an invisible barrier that limits their progression to higher levels of leadership and decision-making roles within organizations. This concept highlights the systemic inequalities and discrimination that persist even in environments where meritocracy is purportedly valued.

In contrast, "sticky floor" pertains to the challenges faced by individuals in low-wage jobs who struggle to rise even to moderate positions. "Leadership gap" describes the broader disparities in representation and leadership roles based on gender or race without focusing on the barriers themselves. "Opportunity divide" can refer to various inequities in accessing jobs or education based on social factors but does not specifically encapsulate the idea of restricted advancement in professional hierarchies. The glass ceiling is distinct in its emphasis on the barriers to promotion that qualified individuals encounter based on their gender or minority status.