Final answer:
The correct answer is the glass ceiling effect. Trousers Inc. top management, comprised of older white males, promotes individuals who are similar to them, creating barriers for women and minorities to advance. Overcoming the glass ceiling effect requires promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to this question is the glass ceiling effect. The glass ceiling refers to the invisible barrier that prevents women and minorities from advancing to top management positions in a company. In the given scenario, since Trouser's Inc. top management is exclusively made up of older white males and promotes individuals who are similar to them, women and minorities who wish to be promoted are likely to experience the glass ceiling effect.
This phenomenon occurs due to the biases and preferences of top management, who may be more comfortable with individuals who are similar to them. As a result, women and minorities may face barriers in reaching the highest levels of the organization, despite their qualifications and capabilities.
To overcome the glass ceiling effect, organizations need to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. By breaking down these barriers and creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds, organizations can benefit from a wider range of perspectives, innovative ideas, and a more inclusive work environment.