Social Networks of Women in Organizations: Evolution of Research and Future Research Agenda

Abstract

This article carries out a literature review of research on social networks regarding women’s careers in the context of organizations and management for the period of 1970–2021. Our focus is on the conceptualization of social networks, understanding gender, and identification of the network effects that are important for women’s careers. The study enables us to create a comprehensive foundation of research knowledge conducted over several decades and build a profound base of suggestions for further research. Our analysis shows that the field has widened to include individual, organizational, and social environment viewpoints. The research on women’s social networks has evolved from establishing the field, to individualistic understanding, to accounting for sociocultural dynamics. The approach to gender has evolved from gender comparison to gender particularity and then contextualizing gender. Our suggestions for future research avenues include incorporating environmental aspects, virtual social networking, diversity, and leadership perspectives to improve women’s inclusion in social network research.