Purpose–The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between glass ceiling beliefs, work engagement, and burnout. Design/methodology/approach–A research model was developed based on the constructs from the Career Path Survey (CPS) and a literature review of research related to work engagement and burnout. Data from a cross-sectional study of 467 female employees from banks in India were collated and empirically tested, using structural equation modeling. Findings–Denial and resilience were positively related to work engagement and negatively to burnout. Resignation and acceptance had a positive relationship with burnout and a negative relationship with work engagement. Research limitations/implications–Further longitudinal studies focusing on different occupational sectors and career aspects can be considered for a more accurate and generalized insight into this concept. Practical implications–Glass ceiling survey can be considered as an input for human resource functions for effectiveness of the organization. Originality/value–This paper is the first to analyze the connection between the beliefs that women have about the glass ceiling and burnout and its components. © Emerald Publishing Limited.