Women networks: making good connections
Women’s networks in the corporate sector are increasingly seen as a business activity as well as a career development tool. Successful networking can positively influence a variety of career outcomes such as increased job opportunities, job performance and career satisfaction. Networking is also extremely important in providing other benefits, such as access to information, gaining visibility, career advice, social support or strategy making.
A research entitled “making good connections” carried out at the Cranfield Centre for Developing Women Leaders in association with Opportunity Now examined how networks of leading companies were started, how they are managed, and what advice the network leaders would give others starting a network. The survey conducted by Professor Susan Vinnicombe, Dr. Val Singh and Dr. Savita Kumra found that companies are starting to draw on the expertise of women’s networks in areas such as product design, marketing and PR. The surveyed networks are involved in a huge range of activities and the business focus is very strong. Women members appreciated their networks and viewed events aimed at career management/advancement and providing networking opportunities as the most memorable events. The main challenges for networks are among sustainability, activities and corporate culture.
