Do Women Need Women’s Networks?

My answer is YES!! I believe there are numerous advantages to joining a women’s network. These groups provide a place where women can nurture relationships in a way that feels comfortable and in a space that empowers them. Below are just a few of the perks I’ve found these networks provide:

• Access to career opportunities
• Opportunity to build your network by attending networking events
• Professional growth and career development sessions
• The chance to learn from, be inspired by, and find role models
• Leadership experience opportunities offered by volunteering to serve in a leadership capacity
• Establish friendships and mentoring relationships with colleagues
• Develop career-supportive relationships within your organization

In male-dominated industries, women have struggled to secure strong representation in all levels of management. The formation of women's networks has played an important role in empowering women to break through the glass ceiling.

Another benefit of gender specific networks is having a space where we are not being judged by our actions, speech, tone of voice or topics of discussion. We can’t escape the fact that we are all judged at times, but it is nice to have a space where we are judged on criteria that pertains to our job rather than our gender.

Dr. Elizabeth Scharlau Roling conducted a study of women nationwide to understand the impact of women’s networks on both women and their organizations. The results reported 81% of organizations support an internal women’s network.  The study provided evidence that there are significant benefits to women’s networks in organizations, and that participating in a women’s network is associated with higher levels of social support, a greater sense of well-being and more positive attitudes toward the company. These findings suggest women’s networks should continue to be recommended and supported.

Liz Yancey, President of Women at AT&T - Atlanta Chapter was quoted as saying, “Joining a women’s network may or may not lead to a promotion – that depends on you and your abilities - but it certainly gives you the exposure and visibility to officers in your company as well as leaders outside of your company when you invite them to meetings or ask them to speak at your meetings.”