The perceived value of networking through an EMBA: a study of Taiwanese women

Purpose – This paper seeks to explore the perceived value of an executive MBA (EMBA) to the development of knowing‐who competency for Taiwanese women managers. Design/methodology/approach – This qualitative research drew on in‐depth interviews with a sample of 18 female alumni across three business schools in Taiwan. Analysis, using NVivo 8.0, focused on individual perceptions of the development of knowing‐who, through networks. Findings – Women emphasized the benefits of acquiring and developing networks from undertaking the EMBA. Cultural values impacted women's perceptions of networking. Research limitations/implications – This is an exploratory piece with limited generalisability, however, it indicates the perceived importance of networking to female EMBA students within the Asian context. Originality/value – Findings extend previous research on the acquisition and development of networks through the EMBA experience. The salience of networking for women is established. The clarification of age or career stage in research on women's careers is needed.