It is taken for granted in the knowledge economy that companies must employ the most talented performers to compete and succeed. Many firms try to buy stars by luring them away from competitors. But Boris Groysberg shows what an uncertain and disastrous practice this can be. Chasing Stars offers profound insights into the fundamental nature of outstanding performance. It also offers practical guidance to individuals on how to manage their careers strategically, and to companies on how to identify, develop, and keep talent. --Publisher's description.
The persistence of the gender gap in the workforce raises critical questions about progress toward equality. Despite women comprising nearly half of the college-educated workforce and the lowest recorded gap between male and female labor force participation before the 2020 economic crisis, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. The gender pay gap shows minimal improvement, primarily due to the concentration of men in high-paying jobs. Even in sectors with equal or majority female representation, leadership continues to be male-dominated. A 2020 sociological analysis indicates that advancements in women's employment and earnings have stagnated. While many believe that remaining disparities stem from individual merit or behavior, this perspective overlooks significant organizational barriers. Popular media often promotes strategies for women to overcome challenges, such as "leaning in" or "speaking up." However, the focus here is on the systemic obstacles and managerial practices that perpetuate gender imbalance. Drawing on research from psychology, sociology, and economics, this work reveals how women are systematically pushed out of the leadership pipeline at various career stages. It offers institutional and managerial strategies to address these barriers, serving as a vital resource for leaders aiming to dismantle the glass ceiling.
