Why Aren’t More Asians Getting to The Top at U.S. Companies?

That is first sentence of an interesting article titled “Breaking Through the Bamboo Ceiling” written by Sylvia Ann Hewlett on Harvard Business Review.  In the article, author brings out some really interesting stats, including:

• Only 1.8% of Fortune 500 CEOs are Asians
• Barely 2% are board members

So why is this the case?  Do Asians not posses leadership capabilities or skills to delegate work?  As the article points out, it is more of culture and personal beliefs than anything else.  To some extent I must agree with that.  My belief is that if I work hard enough, my work will be noticed.  There is no need for me to shout out loud and put a spotlight on myself.  Yet, I have learned (through experience), that is certainly not the way to get a promotion.  You have to market yourself and  your work.  Have to remind your boss about the value you bring to the table (again and again) and clearly state your career goals.  I’m still uncovering this mystery and can certainly use some help. 

Would love to find out your thoughts around how you go about getting ahead in corporate America.

Thanks.