Jean Clarke
Professor of Entrepreneurship and Organization Director of the PhD Program


My research explores multi-modality (a theory that emphasises that ‘language’ is just one of many resources for making meaning) normally in the context of entrepreneurship. I have conducted research examining how language and a range of other (often non-verbal) cultural resources are used by entrepreneurs to create legitimacy. I have a specific interest in how visual resources (body language, dress, space) are used as part of behavioural displays and interactions. Most recently I have been examining how hand gestures (spontaneous movements of the hands and arms) are used in communication and exploring how entrepreneurs use gestures when pitching for investment.
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS
- Clarke, J., Llewellyn, N., Cornelissen, J. and Viney, R. (2019) Gesture Analysis and Organizational Research: The Development and Application of a Protocol for Naturalistic Settings. Organizational Research Methods.
- Clarke, J., Cornelissen, J. and Healey, M. (2019). Actions speak louder than words: How figurative language and gesturing in entrepreneurial pitches influences investment judgements. Academy of Management Journal, 62(2), 335-360.
- Clarke, J. and Holt, R. (2017). Imagery of ad-venture: Understanding entrepreneurial identity through metaphor and drawing. Journal of Business Venturing, 32(5), 474-49
RESEARCH METHODS
Qualitative Methods, Conversation Analysis, Discourse Analysis, Visual Methods (visual ethnography, gesture analysis, drawing analysis).
EDITORIAL ROLES
Organization Studies Senior Editor (September 2017-present)
Organization Theory Editorial Board (2019)
Organization Studies Editorial Board (2013-Present)
Journal of Management Inquiry Editorial Board (2009-Present)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
emlyon business school webpage