The value of a professional network is undeniable. And lack of access to informal networks has been cited as one of the primary barriers to the advancement of women in business. So how do we help women build better networks? At Ellevate Network, a global women's network, I tackle this opportunity every day.
Personally, I've experienced the power of my professional network on many occasions. When I first entered the professional landscape, and quickly realized that investment banking wasn't the right fit for me, it was a friend from college who introduced me to the wonderful world of start-ups and helped me get a job at Vault.com. Thanks to my friend, who saw potential in me that I had not yet realized, I started a career as a sales assistant and eventually became the VP of North American Ad Sales and then the GM of International Operations.
Vault was an early leader in the field of career networking. It had discussion boards where students and professionals shared information on employers and careers. Vault also published survey-based guides where anonymous peers shared insights on what it was like to work at the world's top companies. There was an endless flow of shared information, but little person-to-person connection.
My next two jobs were also a direct result of my network. Former managers recruited me to help start their businesses. Joining the founding team of a company was a risk, but a huge learning opportunity. 39% of Ellevate members say that the biggest hurdle to starting their company is getting the courage to make the jump. Many women think about starting their own businesses but are hesitant to make the leap. As a result of my professional network, my time at Zeel.com taught me a great deal about launching a business, including trusting my instincts, developing a personal board of advisors, and the work that goes into raising money.
When it came time to make my next career transition, I wanted to work at a company more closely aligned with my personal passion - closing the achievement gap for women and girls. I had been a member of 85 Broads (now Ellevate Network) for years and reached out to the business leader to discuss potential opportunities in the industry. That conversation led to a job. Yet more progress due to my network.
I believe in the power of women to drive better businesses, economies, and cultures, and I'm blown away every day by the women I meet through the Ellevate Network. I've seen first-hand the power of a strong network and now, through Ellevate, I am able to facilitate connections between professional women every day.
Kristy Wallace is the President at Ellevate Network, and is responsible for executing Ellevate Network's mission to close the gender achievement gap in business by providing professional women with a global community to lean on and learn from. She directs the Network's staff, is responsible for business growth and strategy, and works closely with Ellevate's Chapter Leaders, Business Partners, and Champions to further Ellevate's impact.