Despite the fact that women become more and more present in the private sector they still are heavily underrepresented in top positions. The cause has been debated and several explanations have been discussed. Although, many women have succeeded to reach top positions by making some more or less deliberate decisions that might have been decisive for their careers.

The main purpose of this study is to analyse what women who aim for a successful career should be aware of regarding their choices of education and profession. Moreover, the importance of different circumstances for the development of women’s career opportunities has been inquired into. The study is based on interviews with nine female managing directors.

The study is based on qualitative data in order to depict the experiences of these successful women. Their depictions have made it possible to apprehend what women who aim at a career should be aware of and bear in mind. The personal interviews have been analysed towards a number of theories.

The outcome shows that a degree from a School of Economics might give good opportunities in a future career. However, to have specific goals regarding one’s education or one’s career has shown not to be necessary. It is of great importance to choose a good manager who encourages the employees and gives them the opportunity to develop in their profession. The conclusion can be drawn that the informal networks are significant to advance in the professional life. Further, it is essential to find a balance between one’s professional and private life and for those with a family, it is required that the spouse does his part of the household duties. To make a successful career it is favourable to have the following qualities: To be persistent, purposeful and open for changes. According to this study, women have a tendency to demand too much of themselves. On the other hand, the demand from others does not seem to be higher on women than on men. Finally, it is highly important to put trust in oneself and to have the courage to take risks and one of the main conditions to develop and make a career is to get on well at work.