Gender in Organizations

Overview

Our research examines the complex dynamics of gender equality and inclusion in contemporary organizations. We investigate how gender intersects with various organizational processes, including leadership, career development, and workplace relationships. Through systematic investigation of gender-related phenomena in organizational settings, we aim to advance theoretical understanding and provide practical insights for organizations striving to create more equitable work environments.

Key Research Directions

Gender and Leadership Development
- Leadership identity development processes
- Gender-related barriers and facilitators in leadership advancement
- Leadership effectiveness and gender stereotypes
- Gender congruence in leader-follower relationships
Gender Equality Initiatives
- Effectiveness of organizational interventions
- Implementation of equality policies
- Structural barriers to gender equality
- Critical evaluation of equality initiatives’ outcomes
Intersectionality in the Workplace
- Intersection of gender with other identities like disability, age, and nationality
- Multiple identity-based experiences and challenges
- Intersectional approaches to diversity management
Gender Differences in Organizational Behaviors
- Individual behavioral patterns and outcomes including in-role and out-role behaviors
- Group interactions and collective behaviors like collaboration and ostracism

Current Research

The role of organizational support in women’s leadership development
Impact of flexible work policies on gender equality outcomes
Psychological mechanisms underlying gender-based career decisions
The intersectionality of gender and disability status in workplace
Unintended consequences and effectiveness of initiatives targeting women in organizations
Gender differences in organizational behaviors like knowledge sharing and voice.

Publications

Zhu, X., Cooke, F. L., Chen, L., & Sun, C. (2022). How inclusive is workplace gender equality research in the Chinese context? Taking stock and looking ahead. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 33(1), 99-141.
Liao, R., Zhu, X., Yang D., Sun C., & Yang, Y. (2024). Female employees with disabilities voice more? Female employees with disabilities voice more? The role of perceived value for uniqueness. In the 2024 Annual Meeting of the Academy of International Business, 2-6 July 2024, Seoul, Korea.

Future Research Agenda

Building on our current findings, we plan to explore: