Are myths about women who network holding you back? 

Myth 1: Women who network are seen as self-promoters

The gender stereotype of networking is that it is self-promoting behavior, deemed unacceptable in women. My research with colleagues at the University of Groningen found that leaders who actively engage in networking behavior are seen as more effective and considered to have more positive characteristics (such as communality and competence) than leaders who do not, regardless of their gender.

Myth 2:  Women’s networking efforts appear inauthentic or disingenuous

Women in leadership positions are often concerned that active networking behavior could be seen as inauthentic or nakedly ambitious. Again, our studies found that women were not seen as less authentic, even when they engaged in networking behavior that is stereotypically masculine, like accepting high-visibility projects. Moreover, when their networking behavior was perceived as authentic, sincere, and true to self, both men and women executives were rated as more suitable leaders by their peers.

Myth 3:  Women who network are less liked by their peers than men

Because agentic networking (such as accepting highly visible work assignments, joining committees to increase internal visibility, and engaging in new outreach initiatives when off the job) is commonly associated with men, women leaders can be reluctant to exhibit such public behaviors for fear of disapproval – but our research showed that women were not only seen as equally effective as men who actively networked, but were also believed to be more likable and more enjoyable to work with.