WORKPLACE GENDER EQUALITY AND LEADERSHIP SUPPORT AS PREDICTORS  OF WOMEN’S CAREER ADVANCEMENT: THE JOB SATISFACTION AS MEDIATOR

Bella Gulshan; Muhammad Usman Arshad; Aamir Sohail

Bella Gulshan Assistant Professor, Department of Business Administration, Altinbas University, Istanbul, TURKEY
Muhammad Usman Arshad Master in Gender Studies, Department of Gender studies, University of Punjab, Pakistan
Aamir Sohail Lecturer, Department of Commerce, Thal University Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan

Keywords: Workplace Gender Equality, Leadership Support, Job Satisfaction, Women’s Career Advancement

Abstract

This study examines the impact of workplace gender equality and leadership support on women’s career advancement, with a particular focus on mediating role of job satisfaction. Grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory & Social Exchange Theory, research investigates how organizational and leadership factors influence women’s professional growth. Quantitative research design was adopted, data were collected from women employees working in various organizational settings. The findings reveal that workplace gender equality has a significant positive effect on women’s career advancement by ensuring fair access to opportunities and reducing structural barriers. Similarly, the leadership support was found to play a role in enhancing career progression by providing mentorship, encouragement, and developmental opportunities. The results further indicate that job satisfaction significantly mediates the relationship amid workplace gender equality, leadership support, and career advancement, highlighting standing of employees’ psychological experiences. Practically, findings suggest that organizations should implement inclusive policies and supportive leadership practices to enhance job satisfaction and promote women’s advancement. Overall, the study underscores the importance of the equitable as well as supportive working environments for sustainable career development.