Wasta as an Example of Informal Social Networks in Emerging Markets: Research Status and Suggestions for Future Directions

Research on informal social networks is gaining momentum. However, there is still much we do not know about these networks and how they impact business practices in the countries in which they operate. This chapter presents the authors’ perspectives on the current state of wasta (as a case study of informal social networks) research and the future directions that need to be explored in relation to wasta to further unpack this practice and to capture its complexity in a way that allows both researchers and practitioners to manage it. It is observed that wasta research is currently too reliant on short timeframe case studies which are mostly qualitative. Whilst these have improved in their theoretical, practical and methodological rigor, it is suggested that there is a need for more mixed methods longitudinal and statistical modelling research. We conclude this chapter by suggesting ways in which wasta researchers can ‘borrow’ from other disciplines to enhance our understanding of this practice.