Continuing my previous post Are Women Better at Networking Than Men, But We Just Don't Know It?, it seems that a percentage of both genders think the other side has it easier, according to a Discover Financial Services survey.
One thousand small business owners were asked for their thoughts on which gender had the upper hand in launching a business, attracting clients, and networking:
"39 percent of male business owners think it is easier for women to start businesses, while 34 percent think it is easier for men. Conversely, 20 percent of female small business owners think it is easier of men to start businesses, compared to 15 percent who think women have it easier.
30 percent of men think it is easier for women to attract new business and only 16 percent think it is easier for men. Among women, 39 percent think it is easier for men to attract new clients while only 19 percent think women have the edge.
24 percent of men believe it is easier for women to network, while 15 percent of men think they have it easier. On the female side, 12 percent of women say men have it easier, while only 8 percent think women have it easier. Overall, two-thirds of all respondents think both sides are about the same when it comes to networking."
Go here to read the rest of the press release.
In the end, the majority of people didn't think gender had anything to do with success in networking, and I'm relieved. In my experience, no one really has a built-in advantage or a built-in disadvantage with networking. Everyone can learn to do it well regardless of gender or personality type.
I'm an introvert, and may network differently from my extroverted colleagues, but I'm still able to get out there and get the help I need. Don't let stereotypes hold you back either.
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