Evolution, Separation and Convergence of Employee Voice Concept

Abstract

This chapter discusses the early conceptualisation of employee voice within the human resource management, employment relations and organisational behaviour disciplines. The chapter identifies the significant turning points within the literature and the resultant divergent pathways that these disciplines took with regard to the conceptualisation and study of voice. The discussion then focuses on ways to better integrate the disparate voice literature. Following this, future directions are provided to guide new voice studies where an integrated concept of voice can be applied. Accordingly, it is proposed that future voice studies should consider both employer and employee interests and formal and informal voice.