Is there a difference between the networks of successful male and female leaders? Research from The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University suggests there is.

Researchers studied what types of networks helped new male and female MBAs land executive leadership positions. According to the data, women not only needed to be well-connected to their peers within the MBA student network, but to achieve the executive positions with the highest levels of authority and pay they also had to have an inner circle of close female contacts, despite having similar qualifications to men, including education and work experience.

An inner circle. Sound familiar? That’s the namesake of our Women in Retail Leadership Circle (WIRLC) newsletter, where you’re most likely reading this right now!

We at WIRLC recognize and emphasize the value of female relationships. Our whole mission centers on bringing women together to empower and uplift one another, forging career advancements and friendships alike. Although the aforementioned research focuses on MBA graduates, it’s conclusions on the importance of close-knit, peer-to-peer networking between female professionals stretches across many industries. We believe it applies heavily to women executives in retail.

We invite you to experience the power of 600-plus women leaders in one room at our upcoming Women in Retail Leadership Summit. The entire event, but especially the networking opportunities, are built for women, by women to inspire and connect our community. Join us from April 28-30 on Amelia Island, Florida at the Ritz-Carlton for the best event of the year for female executives in retail. Seats are filing quickly; register to attend today!