The role of LGBT networks in companies
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2017-06-12
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en
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Abstract
In the literature on women’s networks the perspective of the non-members and legitimacy of the existence of the network are important aspects that play a role in the behaviour and the alleged success of a diversity network. This perspective is mostly omitted in the literature on LGBT networks.
The objective of this research was to get an insight in the perception of non-members on LGBT networks in organisations and how members of the network legitimize the existence of the LGBT network. The views of the members and the non-members were be compared. The research question is therefore: How do legitimacy of the existence of LGBT networks and the perception of non-members influence LGBT networks?
To be able to answer the research question a single case-study was conducted to get a profound insight in the role the LGBT network plays in a company. Eighteen semi- structured interviews were conducted in a Dutch office of a US multinational in the IT-sector. From the interviews eight were with members of the network and ten were with other employees of the company. The data of these interviews have been analysed.
To complete the picture of the company, first the perception of the employees on the culture and on the diversity in the company were described. After that the sub questions of the research were answered. The results show that for the members the networking aspect is one of the most important reasons to be member of the network. Even though in the first place the aim of networking does not seem to be linked to LGBT, Friedman (1996) showed that informal relations are essential for success and that the creation of a comfortable environment to meet new people in a network can in this way contribute the equality of LGBT employees.
The conclusion of this research is that in this company the non-members are quite positive and supportive towards the network and agree on the fact that this is something that fits the culture of the company. Also the business case arguments are well known in the company. Having an LGBT network supports the achievement of the business goals in the company, because it creates a positive image of the company. Because of an environment where people in the company support the network, the members of the network do not feel the need to constantly legitimize the existence of the network.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen