Leadership in Action: Informal Networking and the African American Manager

Informal Networking and the African American Manager

Ancella Livers and Stéphane Brutus

Informal networks (INs), consisting of relationships that are chosen rather than imposed by organizational structure, are essential if a manager is to be effective. Typically, INs serve two functions: instrumental and affective. They are instrumental when they assist the networker in his or her job growth by providing such things as developmental and career guidance, opportunities for heightened visibility, and access to more challenging jobs. INs have affective value when they are a source of friendship and social support, providing feedback and information that the networker sees as credible and trustworthy. Of course, the two functions are not mutually ...