Identification and the Cultural Organization: How the Concept of Identification Can Impact the Constituencies Who Work Within Cultural Organizations

Abstract

This study explores the role identification plays in the relationships between the constituencies that work for cultural organizations and the organization itself, focusing on employees, volunteers, and the board of directors. Although much literature exists about employee engagement within the private sector, little to no information exists about employee engagement in cultural organizations. This article examines in great detail how the concept of identification can impact constituencies working to support a cultural organization. For this study, eight in-depth anonymous interviews were conducted with high-level managers and executive directors of cultural organizations varying in size and organizational structure.