Hiring and Placement Mechanisms in Communication (2007-2014)

• In Event: B.E.S.T.: Communication Networks in and Between Organizations

Abstract

We analyze hiring and placement dynamics in the field of communication using data collected in 2014. We analyze changes compared to data collected in 2007 (as reported in Barnett, Danowski, Feely, & Stalker, 2010), and we identify the factors that underlie the formation of recruitment ties. Our findings challenge prior conclusions that faculty-hiring patterns measure quality in doctoral education; instead, our models suggest that recruitment networks result from inter-organizational dynamics that are likely to be generated by employee mobility. Controlling for these endogenous forces, institutional prestige and faculty seniority are the most important factors shaping the hiring and placement network.

Authors

• Bo Mai, The Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania

• Sandra Gonzalez-Bailon, U of Pennsylvania

• Jiaying Liu, Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania