Organizational identities in networks: sense-giving and sense-taking in the salmon farming industry

Abstract

The notion of organizational identity has received increased attention lately. This paper proposes a ‘balanced’ understanding of identities in networks by combining outside-in and inside-out perspectives on identity development. Empirically a longitudinal case study of the global salmon farming industry is presented. In the discussion a set of sense-processes are illustrated on a network level of analysis, building on the network paradoxes of influence and control. This includes sensemaking (giving meaning to experience), sense-giving (attempts to influence the sense-making of others), sense-breaking (causing others to experience their way of reality as incoherent) and sense-taking (the understanding of how others provide meaning for a focal actor; the successful influence of others). Moreover, a three layered notion of identity, based on the ARA model, is presented. This conceptualization of identity is proposed to provide a meaningful distinction between actor features, resources and activities in the shaping of organizational identities in networks.