The purpose of this study is to identify formal and informal networks among male and
female employees in different organizations in order to examine their characteristics
and related gender differences. Moreover, this study aims to analyze the impact of these
networks on both the career development of female workers and on organizational
outcomes. For theses purposes, a review of previous research, an egocentric social
network analysis via an online survey, and a whole-network analysis of three enterprises,
including interviews with managers and employees, were conducted. Key findings are as
follows: Both male and female workers showed sex homophily, which is characterized
by networking with people of the same gender. Networks were significantly associated
with career satisfaction and career outlook among both male and female workers, but only
associated with position among female workers. Informal networks showed higher density
than did formal networks, and network connection was highly related with gender and
department. In addition, gender proportion was related to network composition, which is
associated with organizational outcome. Based on these findings, improving awareness
of networking at the individual level, providing networking opportunities and shifting the
manner of thinking about networks as well as diagnosing organization at the corporate
level, establishing mentoring and network programs and supporting women’s councils,
promoting online network activities at the governmental level, and the reation of social
and cultural environments that promote networking are all suggested.
Key Words: Formal and informal networks, gender differences, network characteristics,
network analysis, organizational outcomes
