Embracing differences in organizations: ‘differences work’ as a new theoretical perspective

ABSTRACT

The paper presents an expansion of the perspective on ‘differences’ by proposing a novel theoretical concept: ‘differences work’. Differences work is the subjective and intersubjective effort that is put in place to approach differences from a dynamic stance, to encompass the different processes – identity, relational, and cultural – intertwined in experiencing ourselves and the relationship with differences. The concept is illustrated in its cognitive and emotional components. The paper contributes to developing new sensitivities to the in-situ work on differences, advising to investigate empirically how differences work deploys. The paper suggests methodologies for digging into dialogues and conversations, for entering the self-constructions and others’ counter-constructions of differences, and for observing their dynamic and fluid evolution as it happens. The new concept enriches the possibility of going beyond category-oriented policies and orientations in organizations, which are generally aimed at proposing activities not always sufficient to represent all the differences circulating in organizations.

KEYWORDS:

• Differences
• differences work
• identity work
• subjectivity
• constructionism
• relational perspective
• cultural perspective

Acknowledgements

This work is the result of the authors’ efforts, yet we extend particular gratitude to those who have contributed to enhancing its conceptual depth and clarity of expression. Our appreciation goes to the reviewers and the Editor, whose substantial input significantly bolstered the refinement of this manuscript. We also express profound gratitude to Benedetta Colaiacovo for her competent and generous work in critical reading and revising.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).