New Jobs, New Workers? Organizational Restructuring and Management Hiring Decisions

Abstract

Recent studies of work have argued that organizational restructuring and the introduction of technology are altering the nature and experience of work. In this paper, we examine whether recent change has affected managerial perceptions of the characteristics and abilities required of workers. Drawing on interviews with human resource managers in three industries (chemicals production, transportation equipment manufacturing, health services) in Southwestern Ontario, we conclude that management across these industries is indeed seeking a "new" kind of worker, and is placing new demands on their workers. Implications of these changes for employment and for workers are discussed.