This report examines the reality of the old boys’ network (OBN), which is said to influence companies’ promotion decisions, based on the results of a survey conducted from late 2025 to early 2026.
The survey was conducted from late December 2025 to early January 2026 among 2500 full-time employees aged 20 to 64. It quantified the influence of the old boys’ network (OBN) in areas including hiring, evaluations, promotions, decision-making and information sharing. More than 60% of respondents said that OBN influence was “substantial,” “somewhat present” or “may be present.”
The closed nature of OBN is said to have adverse effects on organizations, contributing to difficulty bringing in new talent and high turnover. Respondents also indicated that it can create a sense of stagnating personal growth and make individuals hesitant to speak up.
The influence is said to extend across genders and to be particularly strong in evaluations and promotions, with effects also seen in assignments and growth opportunities. The findings indicated that OBN influence can remain even in organizations with a high proportion of women, prompting the observation that simply increasing the number of women does not automatically eliminate organizational closedness.