1. Identity and Difference Chapter 7 Lecture/Recap

2.  Pre-industrialization: identity = fixed; doesn’t vary much over time  Contemporary ideas of identity: authenticity  Competing identities  Some identities treated unfairly  Generational differences  Conflict or motivation for change History of Identity: A Few Key Points

3.  “Identity and Difference as Organizational Practices and Performances” (p. 196)  Identity Regulation: organization’s goal is to regulate and control members’ identities  Examples: job titles, defining others, specific vocabulary (e.g. defining success), specific morals and values, specific knowledge and skills, group categorization and affiliation, hierarchy, rules, defining the environment  Identity Work: members’ reaction to these attempts to share identities  Self-doubter, struggler, surfer, storyteller, strategist, stencil, soldier Understanding Identity and Difference

4.  “Identity and Difference as Fixed Aspects of Self” (p. 206)  Identity determined for us (nature or nurture)  Sex, gender, race  Role of socialization process (e.g. gender roles); impact on organizational life? Understanding Identity and Difference

5.  “Identity and Difference as Organizational Features that Influence Members” (p. 211)  Organization has an identity  influences members and guides their behaviors/interactions/work  Gendered organizations  Enable and/or constrain members’ identities  Examples of other factors: race and class Understanding Identity and Difference

6. Discussion http://fortune.com/2015/03/03/female-company-president- im-sorry-to-all-the-mothers-i-used-to-work-with/

7.  “Identity and Difference as Popular Culture Narratives” (p. 213)  Consider communication about an organization  Texts we consume impact identity (for self and organizations)  Role of personal branding  Individuals have power to critique these texts Understanding Identity and Difference

8.  Having diversity “just because” vs. recognizing the importance and value of diversity  The Office (“Diversity Day”)  How could this training seminar impact employees’ views of identity and difference?  How might this contribute to the organization’s culture? Role of Diversity

9.  Consider your current organization (or career goal)  Research social and popular narratives. Can consider “films, books, television shows, news reports, magazines, fashions, and even scholarship” (p. 214)  In a 1 to 3 page typed paper, address the following:  What is the value of identity and difference in the organization (or type of organization)?  What themes arise about the industry and/or specific organization? How might this shape your identity as an organizational member?  Tie in course concepts ACT #3 (Due Tuesday, 9/29)