Respectable femininity: a significant panel of glass ceiling for career women

摘要: Purpose This study aims to explicate the role of “respectable femininity” norms in work lives professional women and investigate extent which they impact female career advancement (or lack thereof) by way creating a clash with traditional management techniques accumulating social capital managing desirable impression. Design/methodology/approach The qualitative research design was deemed appropriate for gain an insight incumbents’ experiences. The opinions, thoughts, experiences expressions participants were gauged through in-depth, semi-structured interviews ensure coverage all relevant aspects while retaining flexibility obtain rich detailed data beyond preconceived questions. Findings It found that working Pakistan feeling guilty violating norm “confinement private spheres” appeared obliged abide respectable femininity principles “domesticity”, “restrained networking” “toning down their maintain “honourable” reputation/image society; however, these norms, turn, created significant hurdle constraining capacity exploit “social capital” employing “impression management” tactics. Originality/value This will add credence scant literature pertaining women. showcases female’s enigmatic struggle becoming “good woman” “successful careerist” at same time culminates series subtle barriers careers mounting ultimately become panel “glass ceiling” progression.