ABSTRACT
This chapter explains organisational context and specifically on the organisational processes – both formal and informal – that reflect and reinforce non-inclusion/inclusion. The function of Human Resources has become more concerned with ‘image over substance’ moving from a concern with the wellbeing of personnel to presenting the organisation in the best possible light, with implications for recognising and dealing with violence and harassment. Power related processes involving violence and sexual harassment of women and other ‘outsiders’ are one way of marginalising and devaluing them. Sponsorship involves senior managers with influence leveraging off their own power, reputation and influence to advance the careers of their proteges whether by advocating for or recommending them for assignments, opportunities or promotions and generally using their power and reputation to advance their protege’s career. Relationships between ‘insiders’ are an important element in the processes involving inclusion/exclusion.
