FROM PING PONG TABLES TO PURPOSE - Exploring the dimensions of an attractive workplace

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to understand how companies within the ICT field construct themselves as attractive workplaces in a highly competitive labour market. The research question seeks to investigate which dimensions of work representatives from the companies emphasise as attractive. Theory: Using the lens of institutional theory offered ways to understand the institutional pressures in the ICT field through the concept of isomorphism. Furthermore, the theory enabled to understand the agency of organisations, brought out as institutional work and translation of institutional isomorphic pressures to fit the organisational context. Method: A comparative multiple case study design and qualitative approach underpins the study method. 20 interviews were conducted, comprising of two interviews from each company. The participants consisted of several HR/People and culture professionals, and one IT director. The analysis was made using a thematic approach, beginning with initial coding of the data, continuing with focused coding, and lastly summarising each organisation. Lastly, the summaries were compared to one another, to highlight potential similarities and differences in the cases. Results: The results show that the case organisations comprising the sample emphasised eight dimensions of how to construct themselves as an attractive workplace. The eight prominent dimensions of attractive work are learning and development, flexibility, purpose, employer brand, community and culture, well-being, office, and salary. Some of the dimensions are shown to be connected and contradicting to each other. Additionally, the findings indicate that the companies apply various practices to align to the dimensions of attractive work.