THE ONGOING QUEST FOR PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY BY PORTUGUESE HR MANAGERS
João Leite Ribeiro, Assistant, School of Economics and Management, University of Minho, Portugal
Carlos Cabral-Cardoso, Associate Professor, NEGE – Management Research Unit, University of Minho, Portugal

Abstract
This paper looks at the strategies of professional identity adopted by HR managers in the particular Portuguese context. Using the social identity theory framework and the literature of professions and professionalism, a grounded theory approach was adopted with data collected through semi-structured interviews, and content analysed. The findings show that individual characteristics and backgrounds play a significant part in the strategies adopted. In the absence of a professional qualification and certification body, identification with the individuals’ original field of studies remains very strong among HR managers, thus inhibiting the development of a sense of belonging to the HR community. Structural arrangements involving the HR function, and the relationship and power balance with other functions and professional groups also play a significant part in the HR managers’ ongoing quest for a professional identity.
Keywords: social identity, professional identity, profession, HR manager, Portugal