Marketing executives say they struggle to make as much money as others amid the income disparity between men and women.
This disparity is even more pronounced for women of color, who have the same level of education as men. Chantel Adams, a Black woman who earned a master's degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina, said her accomplishments and her strong work ethic were not considered enough to secure a promotion at her company.
“It was intimidating to some people because I was so bright and astute,” Adams, who claimed to have taken on the extra workload, told the news agency's feature article on the gender pay gap. He spoke to the Associated Press inside. “He has nearly $300,000 to pay for my post-high school education. I'd be surprised if I wasn't as articulate and astute.”
The Associated Press, citing a study by the U.S. Census Bureau, found that women who graduated from prestigious universities or earned post-secondary qualifications earned 71 cents on the dollar compared to men. Separately, black women pursue degrees at higher rates, but still earn less than white men who don't even graduate.
Gayleen Burrows of the National Women's Law Center said in an interview, “We have degrees and we've made great educational achievements, but to earn the same salary as someone who is less educated than us, , we still have to work twice as hard.” At chief.com. “It’s like we’re making the same investments in ourselves as everyone else, but the return on investment is being squeezed by structural racism and sexism.”
Adams explained to the Associated Press that one of her colleagues, who didn't even have an MBA, was promoted over her. Throughout her career, Adams has used her mentorship, networking, and consistent job hunting to combat her pay disparities.
“It's irrational and unfair to deny someone's strengths. I think it's based on race,” Adams added, adding, “To counter that headwind, it's important to invest in your own career.” I knew I needed to be intentional in my steps and move with speed. When I didn't have that opportunity within one company, I moved on to another company.”
Dark marketing executive denied promotion for being 'very clear and sharp', report says
