In the world of management studies, there are many concepts and practices that are taken seriously and studied extensively. However, there are also those that are often overlooked or dismissed as frivolous, despite their potential to offer valuable insights. One such concept is glitter, which has recently caught the attention of author Jette Sandager in her research article, “The sensuous governmentality of glitter: Educating managing women scientists.” In this article, Sandager reflects on the inspiration behind her research and why taking ‘unserious’ glitter seriously can help us understand new management practices.
The idea of glitter may seem out of place in the realm of management studies, which is often associated with serious and rational thinking. However, Sandager argues that glitter can offer a unique perspective on the way we think about and approach management. Glitter, with its sparkly and playful nature, challenges traditional notions of what is considered ‘serious’ or ‘professional.’ By doing so, it opens up possibilities for new ways of thinking and doing in the field of management.
Sandager’s interest in glitter was sparked by her observations of women scientists in management positions. She noticed that many of these women were incorporating glitter into their professional attire, whether it be in the form of a sparkly accessory or a subtle hint of glitter on their clothing. This led her to question the role of glitter in the workplace and its potential impact on management practices.
Upon further research, Sandager found that glitter has a long history of being associated with femininity and the female body. It has been used as a tool for seduction and adornment, but also as a form of resistance and empowerment. By bringing glitter into the workplace, women were subverting traditional gender roles and challenging the dominant masculine culture of management. This act of ‘glittering’ can be seen as a form of ‘sensuous governmentality,’ where individuals use their bodies and senses to govern their own actions and those of others.
Sandager’s research also revealed that glitter has the power to create a sense of community and belonging among women scientists. By embracing glitter, these women were creating a space where they could express their femininity and feel comfortable in their own skin. This sense of belonging can have a positive impact on their confidence and ultimately, their performance as managers.
But glitter is not just limited to women in the workplace. Sandager argues that it can also be used by men to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and create a more inclusive and diverse workplace culture. By embracing glitter, men can break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles and create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.
Taking ‘unserious’ glitter seriously can also help us understand the changing nature of management practices. In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business world, traditional management theories and practices may no longer be relevant. Glitter, with its playful and adaptable nature, can offer a fresh perspective and inspire new ways of managing and leading.
In conclusion, the idea of using glitter in management studies may seem unconventional, but as Sandager’s research shows, it has the potential to offer valuable insights and challenge traditional notions of management. By embracing glitter, we can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace culture, challenge traditional gender roles, and inspire new management practices. So let’s take glitter seriously and see where it can take us in the world of management studies. After all, as the saying goes, “all that glitters is not gold, but it can still be valuable.”
