The Impact of Social Network on the Labor Market Outcomes The Case of Iranian Immigrant Women in Malmö

Abstract: AbstractThis paper investigates the impact of social network on the labor market outcomes. This is a case study of highly-educated Iranian immigrant women who have been living in Malmö for more than five years. It is assumed that the high level of education, language skill and work experience are the major characteristics of human capital that affect their social integration. The role of social network in social and economic life of Iranian immigrant women is discussed. The data is comprised of six semi-structured interviews with highly educated Iranian immigrant women in Malmö. The results of the study indicate that Iranian immigrant women are highly motivated to participate in the social and economic sectors of Sweden. Regarding the social network, having weak ties is associated with better labor market achievement for Iranian immigrant women and the power of social network is immense in the process of social integration. The level of education has both positive and negative effects on the degree of social integration. The results of the study demonstrate that re-education is a strategy and investment for a better employment opportunity in future.