When progress becomes a problem

1 min read · September 12, 2025
New Power Labs

We celebrate when women achieve better representation in organizations, but what if that success creates a new barrier? 

A 2024 study by Stephenson and Yerger reveals that women's representation does help close the wage gap, but only when there are fewer than 14% women in a job category. 

Once women’s representation increases beyond this point, progress stalls. Organizations, thinking the problem is solved, may scale back their efforts before true equity is achieved. 

Closing the gender wage gap goes beyond representation and requires sustained commitment, not just an initial push. 

The challenge isn't just about closing the wage gap; it’s about confronting the temptation to stop trying when the work becomes less visible.

Narinder
New Power Labs

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