Silvia A Nelson

The different variables that affect older males' and females' intentions to continue working

This paper examined the impact of certain work-related variables on older workers intentions to continue paid work and whether the impact of these work-related variables varies between men and women. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey of a sample of 379 employees, aged 50 years and older, working in a large public sector organisation in Australia. Results identified the work-related variables that influence older workers intentions to continue paid work as importance of work, flexibility and interests outside of work, irrespective of gender. Results also indicated that a greater understanding can result if differences between males and females intentions are examined. The findings suggest a significant level of differentiation, based on gender, in relation to autonomy, work environment and interests outside work. Management will need to consider these important work-related variables in addressing attrition and turnover challenges and formulating human resource forecasts and specific strategies for increasing the retention of older workers.

Organisational effectiveness of Australian fast growing small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

Purpose – Small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) continue to make a major contribution to the Australian economy. However, research into organisational processes within SMEs has been limited to date. This study aims to examine the links between communication processes and organisational effectiveness in SMEs.Design/methodology/approach – This quantitative study uses social capital theory as a framework to investigate whether employees level of satisfaction with organisational communication processes affects organisational outcomes within three high growth manufacturing SMEs in one area of Australia.Findings – Results indicate that organisational communication processes does affect employees levels of ambiguity regarding customers, job satisfaction and commitment to their firms.Research limitations/implications – While generalisability is limited because of the small number of SMEs participating in the study, the research indicates great potential for developing theoretical and practical insights into ...

The Impact of Informal and Formal Networks on Innovation in a Constrained Fiscal Environment

Engineers, nurses and doctors are typical of professionals increasingly working in a constrained fiscal environment and asked to do more with less, especially within public sector settings or whilst undertaking public sector contracts. One way of circumventing the constricting hold imposed by resourcing restrictions is to use the social resources embedded within both formal and informal social networks within organisations to provide increased support for organisational and workplace innovation or implementing improved organisational standards. There is much research detailing the benefits for all stakeholders of forming effective workplace relationships between workers, supervisors and management. Social Exchange Theory (SET) argues that informal working relationships with non-line management (which we call ILMX) formed through professional status (belonging to the same profession and sharing similar professional values and beliefs) provides an additional power source alongside traditional management r...