Identity at work: Exploring strategies for Identity Work

Orientation: This study explored strategies for identity work that are central to the negotiationand regulation of employee work identity.Research purpose: The main aim of this study was to explore employee narratives and identifythe strategies available to them in the process of identity work, as they defined themselves atwork.Motivation for the study: As there is a scarcity of research on identity work in South Africa,this study wanted to advance knowledge about identity work and the strategies used forregulating and negotiating an identity at work by exploring these constructs in this context.Research design, approach and method: A qualitative research process formed the basis forthis study. Nineteen employees from a global manufacturing company participated in twosemi-structured in-depth interviews. Grounded theory was applied to analyse and interpretthe data.Main findings: Nine strategies for identity work were identified and categorised into fourbroad themes (personal philosophies; relationships; career management and negotiatingbalance).Practical/managerial implications: Employees followed various strategies for definingthemselves at work and this may have some implications for employee work engagement andproductivity.Contribution/value-add: This study expands on current theoretical knowledge of identitywork, and provides insights into the strategies people use to regulate and negotiate theiridentities at work.