The Individual In The Organization

The Individual in the Organization

Introduction:

Identity can be defined as the way in which individual identify themselves as separate entities in an organisation, it can also be defined as the way in which individual position themselves in their lives and this is achieved through actions and language. Individual use strategies which are aimed at presenting various identities of an individual in work and in life, this paper discuss the various strategies that I use and are successful in achieving these multiple identities. (Page 199)

Strategies:

Groups:

The identification of a person with a group is a means of achieving identity. I belong to various groups which help me achieve multiple identities in the work place and in life. The group aids in giving me an identity and this helps define who I am. Some of these groups include the family which is a primary group, religion and the other is the secondary group which includes the institution I work for. I identify with the company I work for and I identify with the company. Through my interaction with various groups I am able to achieve multiple identities. (Page 222)

Communication:

The Individual in the Organization

Communication is an important tool that helps create multiple and also integrate the multiple identities, identity is achieved through actions and at the same time language or communication, therefore communication really matters in identity. I use conversation as a tool for creating identity, the use of thoughtful responses in conversation is one way in which I achieve identity.

The chapter with reference to the strategies:

From the chapter it is possible to maintain multiple identities through the communication. One can negotiate multiple identities through adoption of communication styles in an organisation. According to Brenda Allen (2003) in the chapter she identifies the three ways in which one can be more successful in multiple identity integration. These strategies include the use of communication skills that are characterised by the following three approaches to conversation. (Page 223)

Mindful: one must be fully conscious about the responses in a conversation and must always put in mind how the privilege of a person is identified in a conversation.

Proactive: this means that one must create a positive change to any conversation in life and in the work place. This means that the person must always be positive towards the issues presented to him and avoid unacceptable conversations.

The communication toolbox: in order for a person to achieve multiple identities in life and in the work place one must communicate effectively in a way in which one communicates theories and concepts in a practical manner. This also involves developing persuasive arguments and also creating opportunity for real dialogue in communication. (Page 223)

Through the use of the above strategies it is possible to successfully achieve multiple identities in the work place and in life. In reference to groups it is clear in the chapter that identity is created by defining other groups in order to define own group, this involves comparing groups

The Individual in the Organization

with the other group, personal identity is created by defining other people in order to define own identity through contrasting. This is a successful way in which multiple identities can be integrated. (Page 222)

References:

James E and C. Levine (2002) Identity Formation, Lawrence Erlbaum press, New Jersey