Social class in the workplace is a topic that does not get nearly enough attention. More to the point the effect or cumulative effect that managers can have on an individuals career. During my time in the workplace I have had a fairly diverse group of managers. While ratings I received from them could for the most part be considered fair, there have been some distinct differences. A study I reviewed attempted to quantify the effects that different managerial relationships have had on an individuals career.
Homophily, or the tendency someone has to want to be with persons similar to them can have a significant impact to performance in the workplace. The study I reviewed indicates there are effects on performance a worker may not even be aware of. If you have a manager that could be considered part of your "social network" for example. I am not referring to a manager and a subordinate being friends necessarily but being the same gender for example. The reviews written by different managers or members of a different social network can definitely influence an individuals career, but do they all accurately depict the performance of the individual? No! Does the review content direct ones career and affect career decisions by an individual that eventually roll up into achieving business objectives or not? Yes! That statement does infer that performance reviews given by our own social network members are more positive, and it was meant to.
So what is the answer? Even in a setting where an individuals performance can be quantified with hard data, there is always going to be room for interpretation. Awareness may be a step in the right direction. At least then a person can step back and consider that learning and growing from their superior as opposed to trying to buck the system may be a better way to go.
Castilla, E. J. (2011). Bringing Managers Back In: Managerial Influences on Workplace Inequality. American Sociological Review, 76(5), 667-694. doi:10.1177/0003122411420814
This is something that I didn't even think of before Ed. It crazy to me that someone's social class can play such an instrumental role in their career. Awareness is the best plan of action. Well written and good points.
ReplyDeleteThe topic infiltrates every little corner of our lives. Social class is not something we speak about often in the USA, but it is everywhere, all the time...
ReplyDeleteFirst of all you taught me a new word...homophily. I have never heard of that word before! It's sad that one person can influence an individuals career but, they can!
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