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Unique Networks for Women: Leverage What You've Got

Network all you can: Even at your book club!

“That led to meeting all kinds of people,” say Marchildon. “It’s been interesting to see our little idea explode.” Marchildon’s openness to networking has resulted in a booming business just a year and a half after moving to a new state.

Nonprofessional settings may actually be natural places for many women to make career connections. Deborah Vaughan, an independent career counselor who also works for The Women’s Center says that women in the workplace tend to be hardworking, to a fault.

“Women underestimate the value of face time,” says Vaughan. “They assume if what they are doing is high quality, it will be rewarded.” Men, on the other hand, tend to take the time at work to connect and notify others of their accomplishments.

Additionally, Young explains that many women are uncomfortable with pure career networking. “There’s a sense that it would be hypocritical for a woman to stay in contact if she doesn’t like the person,” Young says. Men seem to be more at ease separating personality and business.