Affinity networks as diversity instruments. Three sociological dilemmas

Marieke Slootman*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to JournalComment / Letter to the editorAcademic

Abstract

Are affinity networks, like women's, LGBTQ+ and bicultural employee networks, really effective instruments for diversity management? These networks, also called identity networks, diversity networks or employee resource groups, are seen as important means to make organizations more inclusive and to provide spaces for professional development and social networking. However, they also strengthen exclusionary norms and power hierarchies. The identification of three sociological dilemmas shines light on the complexities and the ambiguous effects of identity networks. Through its discourse, activities and organizational structure, a network either supports individual career advancement – while strengthening existing inequalities – or promotes organizational change. Recognizing these dilemmas will help researchers, organizations, diversity practitioners, and affinity networks to make more informed and deliberate choices.

Original languageEnglish
Article number101217
Pages (from-to)1-6
Number of pages6
JournalScandinavian Journal of Management
Volume38
Issue number3
Early online date17 May 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
I extend my gratitude to Prof. Maurice Crul and Prof. Halleh Ghorashi, and the members of the VU's IDI research group for their comments to earlier versions of the ideas developed in this article. Tigran Melikian, thank you for your encouragement, which made me speed up the completion of this article.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022

Funding

I extend my gratitude to Prof. Maurice Crul and Prof. Halleh Ghorashi, and the members of the VU's IDI research group for their comments to earlier versions of the ideas developed in this article. Tigran Melikian, thank you for your encouragement, which made me speed up the completion of this article.

Keywords

  • Affinity networks
  • Diversity
  • Diversity management
  • Employee networks
  • Empowerment
  • Equity
  • Identity
  • Identity networks
  • Identity politics
  • Inclusion

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Affinity networks as diversity instruments. Three sociological dilemmas'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this