1. Home
  2. Students
  3. Chapter 25 - Communication and Identity Management by New York City’s Immigrant Women Entrepreneurs

Chapter 25 - Communication and Identity Management by New York City’s Immigrant Women Entrepreneurs

Müge Haseki and Craig R. Scott

Synopsis

Being a woman, an immigrant, and an entrepreneur at the same time may create somewhat unique challenges. This case shares the stories of five immigrant women entrepreneurs operating in New York City. Elayah, Safiya, Leila, Maral and Vladlena come from different backgrounds and operate in very different businesses; yet, they encounter similar demands. All five of them are using different communication strategies and channels in managing the opportunities and challenges associated with their multiple identities.

Keywords: Identity Management, Entrepreneurship, Media Use, Networking, Strategic Communication

Key Takeaways and Take a Stand Form

Key Takeaways

After reading this case study, you will understand:

  1. The challenges of immigrant women entrepreneurs are not static; they are turning them into opportunities through communicative strategies.
  2. Professional identity is constantly negotiated through discursive activity.
  3. Immigrant women entrepreneurs are enacting a desired professional identity through identifying or disidentifying with their particular identities.
  4. Strategic uses of communication channels help immigrant women entrepreneurs increase their business opportunities.
  5. Social networks of immigrant women entrepreneurs can play a key role in their decision making for their business.

Take a Stand Form