Shocking Report: Women Are Being Left Behind in the Workplace – Here's What You Need to Know

A new report reveals that women in the U.S. are feeling increasingly left out and less optimistic about their career advancement, as many companies are deprioritizing their progress. The 2025 Women in the Workplace Report, published by Lean In and McKinsey & Company, highlights critical issues that are holding women back.

Key Findings from the Report

Women are facing significant barriers, including less sponsorship and manager advocacy, which directly impacts their career growth. Some companies have even scaled back programs that benefit women, such as remote work options and targeted career development initiatives.

For the first time, the report identifies an ambition gap: women are less interested in promotions compared to men. About 80% of women want a promotion, versus 86% of men, with the gap widest at entry and senior levels. Career support is strongly linked to desire to advance; when women receive similar support as men, the gap disappears.

The Promotion Disparity

Women remain underrepresented at every level in the workplace. For every 100 men, only 93 women are promoted to manager, and even fewer women of color achieve this milestone. This trend particularly harms young women early in their careers, creating a broken rung that limits future advancement.

Senior-level women also face challenges, with many believing top roles are unattainable and experiencing high levels of burnout. Concerns about gender impeding advancement are prevalent among this group.

How Workplaces Can Improve

The report emphasizes that leaders can take tangible steps to create a more equitable environment. Sponsorship is crucial, as senior leaders can use their influence to advance women into high-visibility roles. Tracking outcomes for employees helps identify gaps in support, such as who receives encouragement for leadership training or AI usage.

Peer mentorship is another powerful tool, especially for women early in their careers. Sharing advice and validation with peers can boost confidence and career prospects. Creating a fair and inclusive workplace can double motivation and willingness to take risks among employees.