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Knowledge work: gender-blind or gender-biased?

Author

Listed:
  • Catherine Truss

    (University of Kent, UK)

  • Edel Conway

    (Dublin City University, Ireland)

  • Alessia d’Amato

    (London School of Economics, UK)

  • Gráinne Kelly

    (Dublin City University, Ireland)

  • Kathy Monks

    (Dublin City University, Ireland)

  • Enda Hannon

    (Kingston University, UK)

  • Patrick C Flood

    (Dublin City University, Ireland)

Abstract

Knowledge-intensive firms (KIFs) have been the subject of growing interest from researchers. However, investigations into the comparative experiences of men and women in KIFs remain sparse, and little is known about women’s participation in the processes of innovation and knowledge exchange and combination that are core features of KIFs. The article reports on the findings of a study in the UK and Ireland involving 498 male and female knowledge workers in KIFs. Despite equal levels of qualification and experience, women are more likely to be in lower status and less secure jobs. They also predominantly occupy roles featuring less variety and autonomy than men and, despite comparable levels of knowledge exchange and combination, are less likely to be in a position to translate this into the innovative work behaviours necessary for career advancement. The findings suggest that women’s experiences of and participation in knowledge processes within KIFs differ fundamentally from men’s.

Suggested Citation

  • Catherine Truss & Edel Conway & Alessia d’Amato & Gráinne Kelly & Kathy Monks & Enda Hannon & Patrick C Flood, 2012. "Knowledge work: gender-blind or gender-biased?," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 26(5), pages 735-754, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:26:y:2012:i:5:p:735-754
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Spivack, April J. & Woodside, Arch G., 2019. "Applying complexity theory for modeling human resource outcomes: Antecedent configurations indicating perceived location autonomy and work environment choice," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 102(C), pages 109-119.
    2. Dueñas, Diego & Iglesias, Carlos & Llorente, Raquel, 2014. "Do services reduce gender inequality in labor markets? The service sector, knnowledge-intensive services and the gender pay gap," MPRA Paper 61628, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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