Career Advancement Based on Who You Know: Impact of Social Networks on Obtaining Challenging Assignments

• In Event: Diversity, Talent, and Volunteerism

Abstract

Racial disparities in career advancement continues to be a significant challenge for employers and minority workers. We examine how social networks influence the ability of Black professionals to be placed on high profile and challenging assignments. Using a survey of Black accounting professionals, we find that the key factors to obtaining challenging assignments include the professional having access to social networks, ability to establish social networks, and having a mentor open door to challenging assignments. Since the ability to establish social networks is dependent on access to social networks, we find that access improves when employers create an accepting and welcoming work environment, mentors introduce Black professionals to the right social networks, and when the professional defines success to include involvement in social activities with business colleagues. Employers, mentors and professionals can contribute to the career advancement of Black accounting professionals through challenging assignments.

Authors

• R. Mithu Dey, Howard University

• Lucy Lim, Howard University