Night owls start at the bottom while early birds rise to the top: Is the corporate ladder rigged by the clock in US?

New research reveals a quiet bias shaping careers: entry-level employees are far more likely to be night-oriented, while leadership favours morning workers. As visibility and recognition cluster in early hours, equally capable talent risks being overlooked. The findings raise a critical question—are promotions driven by performance, or by alignment with traditional work schedules?

Night owls start at the bottom while early birds rise to the top: Is the corporate ladder rigged by the clock in US?
New research reveals a quiet bias shaping careers: entry-level employees are far more likely to be night-oriented, while leadership favours morning workers. As visibility and recognition cluster in early hours, equally capable talent risks being overlooked. The findings raise a critical question—are promotions driven by performance, or by alignment with traditional work schedules?