Network, network, network. It’s probably one of the most said words among professionals. Whether you’re on the hunt for next-level career opportunities, or bringing in new power partners at your current job, networking is an absolute must. Expanding your contacts is incredibly important for professional women, especially those of color. According to AmericanProgress.org, “Women of color occupy only 11.9 percent of managerial and professional positions. And of those women, 5.3 percent are African American…” In networking, however, we create opportunity to improve those disproportionate numbers by building systems of support where we are more inclined to look out for each other professionally. Debra Langford, associate director of diversity programs at USC Marshall School of Business, told BlackEnterprise.com, “When I have made career transitions, it was because my network believed I could do it.” She said, “They helped me move up and helped me strive. I had my network’s support.” As you ring in the new year and set your resolutions, make broadening your rolodex of professional peers one of them. Attend conferences and events related to your line of work, and join an association or two where you can meet other upward moving individuals. Check out these professional networks for black women to get the ball rolling.
BCWN’s purpose statement is: Being a supportive element in the professional success of African-American Women from all stages in their careers. Embodying career empowerment through a strong network and community of professional women whom will share experiences, knowledge, resources and tools essential for professional growth that can help women reach their full potential to achieve professional success. You can find a local network in your area here and register for free. By joining, you have access to unique membership benefits, including career resources, job opportunities, career coaches and mentor experts, and more.
Network of Black Business & Professional Women
The Network of Black Business and Professional Women’s ( NB2PW) mission connects, inspires, and supports the development of Black business and professional women and entrepreneurs, and is committed to challenging members to strive for excellence in their professional, personal, and business endeavors to increase wealth and to engage in civic responsibility. Members have
to be black women professionals, commissioned sales representatives, women in business or entrepreneurs. Black women students in their last year of college or professional program are also eligible under the student membership program. There are different membership categories with varying fees. Some of the benefits include logo and business advertisement, mentorship, meet-ups and professional features on the network website.Black Women Connect is an online community and social network for African American women who are career-driven and business savvy. Users connect for jobs, business building, professional networking and girl talk. There is no fee to be a part of the online platform, only a registration process. Members can connect with each other through their Black Women Connect profiles and also invite others to join. There is also a Careers database where women can upload their resumes and search for employment opportunities. Unique features include a Directory of products, such as hair care and fashion, and a Singles social element.
The Executive Leadership Council
The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) is an organization open to both women and men as the preeminent membership organization for the development of global black leaders. Membership in The ELC is open to senior level African-American CEOs or senior executives within three levels of the enterprise CEO of a Fortune 500 company or global equivalent with annual revenues of more than $3 billion. Candidates must have significant organizational and budgetary responsibilities. To become a
member, prospects have to be recommended by an existing member in good standing. The organization is heavily involved in charitable efforts through their philanthropic pipeline, The Executive Leadership Foundation (ELF). Noted figures, such as Gail King, Debra Lee, and R&B singer Brandy, have attended and/or been honored at ELC social and charity events.National Coalition of 100 Black Women
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s mission is to advocate on behalf of black women and girls to promote leadership development and gender equity in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment. The coalition is not solely focused on professional development, but there are numerous members who are distinguished professionals. The Coalition values several core principles as well that benefit working women, such as gender equity, economic empowerment and collaboration. The esteemed organization, sponsored by Prudential and Wells Fargo, holds multiple chapters. Women interested in joining the network can contact the headquarters.