More complex images of women at work are needed: a fictive example of Petra Delicado

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to convince the readers that more complex images of working women are needed, and that fiction may provide them.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, text analysis is done using a version of close reading.

Findings

Both media and research tend to simplify the images of working women, either in positive or negative way. Reality and some of its fictive representations offer more nuanced examples.

Research limitations/implications

Fiction can be treated as field material.

Practical implications

Women should dare more at workplaces.

Social implications

Researchers should join fiction writers in convincing society of the crucial role women play in contemporary organizations.

Originality/value

This paper belongs to the growing tradition of transdisciplinary organization studies.

Citation

Czarniawska, B. (2020), "More complex images of women at work are needed: a fictive example of Petra Delicado", Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 33 No. 4, pp. 655-665. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOCM-02-2019-0045