ERIC Number: ED390333
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1995
Pages: 17
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
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Available Date: N/A
Passing through the Glass Ceiling.
McGinty, Robert L.
This paper describes personal and professional networking, discusses data on women and networking skills, and argues that women should exercise these skills in their efforts to shatter the "glass ceiling" and achieve their career potential. An introductory discussion notes that women, though they do network, may develop ties primarily with other women and are inclined to develop friendships rather than establish strategic connections to more powerful individuals in their organizations. Successful women network with power brokers and engage their support; they meet as many people as possible; they are prepared to assist others and to work as a team member; and they create opportunities to make connections. A survey of 33 women and their reflections on their own networking experiences found that 70 percent networked primarily with other women, and all cited knowing someone who knew someone as the source of their first job. The final section offers four steps in building a networking strategy: (1) deciding a future career aspiration; (2) developing a list of those in a position to help; (3) initiating contact, developing support, establishing ties, asking for help, being willing to help; and (4) devoting time to establishing and maintaining a network. (Contains 12 references.) (JB)
Publication Type: Guides - Non-Classroom; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners; Students
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A