This paper examined the impact of certain work-related factors on older workers" intentions to continue paid work and whether the impact of these work-related factors varies between men and women. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey of a sample of employees, aged 50 years and older, working in a large public sector organisation in Australia. Results identified the work-related factors that influence older workers" intentions to continue paid work as "importance of work", flexibility"and "interests outside of work", irrespective of gender. Results also indicated that this influence can be substantially enriched when examining the differences between males" and females" intentions. The findings suggest a significant level of differentiation, based on gender, in relation to "autonomy", "work environment" and "interests outside work". Management will need to consider these important workrelated factors in addressing attrition and turnover data and formulating human resource forecasts and specific strategies for retention of older workers.

No abstract

No abstract

Informal workplace relationships - 'Jeitinho' (similar to the Chinese 'guanxi') may be worthy of examination within BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries such as Brazil.

Purpose -Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) continue to make a major contribution to the Australian economy. However, research into organisational processes within SMEs has been limited to date. This study aims to examine the links between communication processes and organisational effectiveness in SMEs. Design/methodology/approach -This quantitative study uses social capital theory as a framework to investigate whether employees' level of satisfaction with organisational communication processes affects organisational outcomes within three high growth manufacturing SMEs in one area of Australia. Findings -Results indicate that organisational communication processes does affect employees' levels of ambiguity regarding customers, job satisfaction and commitment to their firms. Research limitations/implications -While generalisability is limited because of the small number of SMEs participating in the study, the research indicates great potential for developing theoretical and practical insights into Australian SMEs that would assist industry and employees overall. Practical implications -Implications for the growth strategies of SMEs, particularly in relation to the current skilled labour shortage, are discussed. Originality/value -The paper contributes much needed theoretical development and research into SMEs.