Anna’s research aims to understand how working patterns after parenthood, work-based social networks and career success relate to each other. Anna is most interested in the ‘real-life’ networks of current and former colleagues, managers and other people work brings us into contact with. She aims to understand patterns of career-related support or social capital and how these may shift after parenthood.
In the world of work, ‘who you know’ can be just as important as ‘what you know.’ Research has consistently shown that men and women often have different career-related social networks, and even when their networks appear similar, the types of support they receive can differ. Parenthood, in particular, can act as a pivotal moment that shifts the dynamics of career progression.
As part of my PhD research at the University of Birmingham, I am investigating the contrasts between mothers and fathers, exploring how parenthood influences their social networks and the career support they receive. My research focuses on the Public Relations (PR) sector— a field where informal hiring and promotion practices heavily depend on networking, and where gender disparities, particularly in senior roles, are stark. The gender pay gap in PR leadership roles is a notable example of how these dynamics play out.
My work aims to guide employers and those with hiring responsibilities to design fairer processes that reduce the impact of differing social networks on candidates’ career prospects, particularly for parents. By addressing the informal mechanisms that drive gender career gaps, we can make strides toward more equitable career development.
One of the unique aspects of my research is the innovative, qualitative approach I employ. While many studies of social networks rely on quantitative methods and snapshots of a single point in time, I delve deeper into the unfolding process of informal hiring and career advancement. Using career timelines, I map the long-term career-related support that professionals receive, capturing the cumulative ‘snowball’ effect that certain relationships can have on career trajectories. This approach brings to light pivotal moments—such as the transition to parenthood—that can significantly shift the nature of career support for men and women.
By examining these long-term career pathways, my research will provide valuable insights into how life changes like parenthood alter career dynamics and offer practical guidance for improving workplace equality in network-driven industries like Public Relations.