Career experiences of women in British public relations (1970-1989)
Authors: Yaxley, H.M.L.
Journal: Public Relations Review
Volume: 39
Issue: 2
Pages: 156-165
ISSN: 0363-8111
DOI: 10.1016/j.pubrev.2013.03.009
Abstract:Women's career experiences in British public relations in 1970s/1980s were exciting. Evidence of agentic self-efficacy, not typically expected from women. Male and female proxy agents and personal agency approach found. Career experiences were not acknowledged as gendered labour. Women did not act as change agents and were critical of subsequent generations. This study foregrounds career experiences of women working in public relations in Britain during the 1970s and 1980s, a time when female employment in the field increased tenfold. Descriptive oral history interviews with seven women identified a post-facto connection with initial opportunistic experiences of public relations described universally as 'exciting'. Despite a lack of purposeful career direction, interviewees evidenced agentic self-efficacy, not typically expected from women. Male and female role models acted as proxy agents influencing career advancement, however, the women did not act as change agents for younger female practitioners; indeed they were critical of subsequent generations. © 2013 Elsevier Inc.
Source: Scopus
Preferred by: Heather Yaxley