<strong>Orientation:</strong> The study explored the dynamics of work identity negotiation and construction.<p><strong>Research purpose:</strong> The aim of the study was to investigate identity tensions and demands that mobilise identity work in the work environment.</p><p><strong>Motivation for the study:</strong> The study hoped to improve the understanding of the dynamics of identity construction and negotiation.</p><p><strong>Research design, approach and method:</strong> Using grounded theory methodology in the context of qualitative field research, the researchers conducted two unstructured interviews with 28 employees of a South African manufacturing company.</p><p><strong>Main findings:</strong> The five primary dimensions the data yielded were personal identity, individual agency, social identity, social practice and job.</p><p><strong>Practical/managerial implications:</strong> This study has implications for organisations that want to improve productivity through understanding work identity.</p><p><strong>Contribution/value-add:</strong> The article presents a conceptual model of the demands and tensions that influence work identity.</p><p><strong>How to cite this article:</strong><br /> Saayman, T., &amp; Crafford, A.(2011). Negotiating work identity. <em>SA Journal of Industrial Psychology/SA Tydskrif vir Bedryfsielkunde, 37</em>(1), Art. #963,12 pages. http://dx.doi.org/10.410/sajip.v37i1.963</p>

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