The Phenomenological Study About the Lived Experiences of Black Women Pursing Managerial Positions in Corporate America

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative, descriptive phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of Black women advancing into management positions who faced more gender and racial biases than their White male and female counterparts in corporate America. The study aimed to gain insight into how Black women perceive gender and racial biases in comparison to their White male and female counterparts. The participants selected for individual interviews were asked open-ended questions related to their experiences while advancing in corporate America. By understanding their lived experiences through their perceptions of gender and racial biases, additional elements may manifest themes related to this phenomenon. The study provided information for Black women to learn about and practice their perseverance strategies to ascend into managerial roles. While Black women compete with Black men, White women, and White men, they may need to adopt a direct understanding, based on their lived experiences, to find personal meaning to their unique position within society. The study’s outcome addresses the challenges, barriers, and perseverance strategies Black women used to ascend into management roles.