Figures show women could benefit from some LinkedIn training

June 23, 2011

New analysis of the connection data of the 100 million global users of LinkedIn has shown that women are more in need of some LinkedIn training and tips than men.

The professionally-orientated social network found that on average, men had more business connections than women and, on the whole, appeared to actively use the network more to further business opportunities.

LinkedIn's Connection Director, Nicole Williams, said the results could indicate a greater reluctance by women to interact and make connections online.

"Women can sometimes shy away from networking because they associate it with schmoozing or doling out business cards, when in reality, it's about building relationships before you actually need them," she said.

Williams explained, however, that networking online can eliminate the possible sense of intimidation that can accompany networking in person. It can help cultivate the networking skills needed to improve face-to-face interaction.

In Britain, women were found to be better networkers in such areas as agriculture, think tanks, executive office and philanthropic industries; while men who worked in the supermarket industry, military, veterinary and medical industries were better networkers than women.

When broken down by industries, however, women did show to be better social networkers in areas including agriculture, think tanks, executive office and philanthropic industries. Men, on the other hand, excelled in the supermarket industry, military, veterinary and medical industries.