Female part‐time workers' experiences of occupational mobility in the UK service industry

Abstract

Purpose

This purpose of this paper it to explore the extent to which female part‐time workers experience occupational mobility in UK service sector firms, particularly promotional opportunities, since the implementation of the Part‐time Workers' Directive in 2000.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a qualitative methodology. In‐depth interviews were carried out with 62 women and 12 of their managers in five case study workplaces in the service industry, so as to better understand individuals' perceptions of part‐time work and the processes that shape part‐time working at an organisational level.

Findings

The findings are not particularly encouraging in terms of female part‐time workers' perceptions of their opportunities for career progression in four of the five case studies. Distinctions were found between legislation, organisational policies and informal workplace practices. It is argued in this paper that each of these levels is important in understanding patterns of change and continuity in the use and structuring of part‐time work.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper lies in its use of occupational closure to explain the stratification of part‐time workers and this paper has significance and value for debates surrounding the progression and career prospects of non‐standard workers and diversity management more broadly.

Citation

Tomlinson, J. (2007), "Female part‐time workers' experiences of occupational mobility in the UK service industry", Women in Management Review, Vol. 22 No. 4, pp. 305-318. https://doi.org/10.1108/09649420710754255