Gendered Discourse in Professional Communication develops new theoretical and methodological approaches, employing an interdisciplinary, multi-method approach which includes the introduction of a framework entitled 'critical feminist' sociolinguistics'. The analysis focuses on linguistic practices used within corporate managerial interactions in conjunction with the gendered discourses that operate within these businesses. The study highlights the crucial role that gendered discourses play in defining 'acceptable' professional identities, and explores the manner in which these discourses serve to maintain the 'glass ceiling'.