RACE, OPPORTUNITY, AND DIVERSITY OF SOCIAL CIRCLES IN MANAGERIAL NETWORKS

This study investigated the informal networks of white and minority ma nagers. Minority managers had more racially heterogeneous and fewer in timate network relationships. Within the minority group, differences i n advancement potential were associated with different network configu rations: high-potential individuals balanced same- and cross-race cont acts; others had networks dominated by ties to whites. High-potential minorities also had more contacts outside their groups, fewer high-sta tus ties, and less overlap between their social and instrumental circl es. Relative to whites, minority managers viewed similar network chara cteristics as providing less access to career benefits.