OSC Scientific Seminar 2021-2022

Friday 3rd September 2021, 11:30 am / 1:00 pm (Zoom videoconference)

Uncertain Matchmaking: the Reproduction of Unequal Opportunities
through the Hiring Process

Gerbrand Tholen

Senior Lecturer in Sociology, City, University of London

The paper to be presented analyses how employers identify their labour market needs within the recruitment and selection process. It is based on a qualitative study of external recruitment consultants who help employers hire professionals in sectors such as engineering, finance, and marketing. It demonstrates that relational claim-making and categorisation by employers – and negotiation between stakeholders, including consultants – fundamentally shape what constitutes a suitable or desirable candidate.

The paper argues that this leads to unequal opportunities for particular groups and individuals, using two examples. The first part investigates how organisational fit is defined and applied by employers. The second part explains how hiring criteria and requirements are co-created and continue to shift during the recruitment process.

Registration is mandatory to join the ZOOM meeting (the link will be sent one day before).