Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xian -China
Author Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Rida Batool's academic journey began in Pakistan, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Human Resource Management (HRM) from Fatima Jinnah Women University in 2009. Her thesis, titled "Soft Skills Training in the Hotel Industry of Pakistan," laid the foundation for her future research interests in HRM. Demonstrating a strong inclination towards understanding and improving organizational practices, she pursued a Master of Management Science & Engineering at Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Xi’an, China, from 2011 to 2013. Her master's thesis, “Investigating a Relationship Between Best Human Resource Management Practices and Optimized HR: A Comparative Study for Organizations in Pakistan and China,” showcased her ability to analyze and compare HR practices across different cultural contexts.
Professional Endeavors
Rida's professional career began at CINEPAX Limited in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, where she worked as an HR Supervisor from 2009 to 2011 and then as an HR Executive from 2014 to 2017. In these roles, she was responsible for maintaining employee records, planning and managing training programs, administering salaries and benefits, and conducting HR interviews. Her experience at CINEPAX honed her practical skills in HRM and provided her with valuable insights into the challenges and dynamics of the entertainment industry.
In January 2021, Rida transitioned to a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Xi’an, China. During this time, she focused on applying for research grants, publishing papers, supervising and reviewing the work of fellow researchers, and teaching research techniques. This role not only expanded her academic horizons but also solidified her position as a mentor and leader in her field.
Contributions and Research Focus
Rida Batool's research has made significant contributions to the field of management sciences, particularly in HRM. Her PhD thesis at Huazhong University of Science & Technology (HUST) in Wuhan, China, titled "Impact and Mechanism of Internal Identity Asymmetry on Employee’s Behavior and Feelings: An Empirical Study for Pakistan’s Employees," delved into the psychological aspects of employee behavior, exploring how identity asymmetry affects workplace dynamics.
She has authored numerous publications that highlight her research prowess. Notable among these is her paper in Heliyon, “Impact of Internal Identity Asymmetry on Employee's Behaviors and Feelings: A Mediating Role of Psychological Distress,” which explores the intricate relationship between identity asymmetry and psychological distress in employees. Her other works, such as those published in SAGE Open and the International Journal of Information, Business, and Management, further underscore her expertise in transformational leadership, project success, and comparative HRM practices between Pakistan and China.
Accolades and Recognition
Rida's academic and professional excellence has been recognized through various awards and honors. She received the HUST Outstanding Volunteer Award in 2019, acknowledging her contributions beyond her academic responsibilities. She also earned the Graduate National Scholarship Award in 2012, securing second prize from Northwestern Polytechnical University. These accolades reflect her dedication, hard work, and the high regard in which she is held by her peers and mentors.
Impact and Influence on Motivation and Employee Engagement
Rida Batool's impact on the field of HRM is profound. Her research has provided valuable insights into how internal identity asymmetry affects employee behavior and feelings, a critical area that influences organizational effectiveness and employee well-being. Her comparative studies have shed light on the best HRM practices in different cultural contexts, offering practical recommendations for optimizing HR functions in diverse organizational settings.
As an educator and mentor, Rida has influenced many budding researchers and students. Her ability to supervise and guide research projects, coupled with her active participation in seminars and workshops, has helped shape the next generation of HR professionals.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Rida Batool's legacy in the field of management sciences is built on her deep understanding of HRM, her innovative research, and her commitment to academic excellence. Her future contributions are poised to further advance the field, particularly in areas related to identity asymmetry, employee behavior, and cross-cultural HR practices.
Looking ahead, Rida aims to continue her research on internal identity asymmetry and its implications for organizational behavior. She is also keen on exploring new avenues in HRM, such as the impact of technology on HR practices and the role of leadership in fostering inclusive and productive workplaces.
Employee engagement, on the other hand, is the emotional commitment an employee has towards their organization and its goals. It goes beyond mere job satisfaction and encompasses how invested employees are in their work and how willing they are to go the extra mile. Engaged employees are often more productive, innovative, and loyal to their company. Engagement can be fostered through meaningful work, strong leadership, clear communication, opportunities for growth, and a positive work environment. High levels of employee engagement are linked to improved business outcomes, such as higher customer satisfaction, lower turnover rates, and better financial performance.
Conclusion
Rida Batool’s journey from a passionate student in Pakistan to a respected postdoctoral researcher in China exemplifies her dedication to advancing the field of management sciences. Her early academic pursuits laid a strong foundation, while her professional endeavors and research contributions have significantly impacted HRM practices. Recognized for her excellence and commitment, Rida continues to influence and inspire, leaving a lasting legacy in her field and paving the way for future innovations in HRM and management sciences.
Motivation in the workplace refers to the internal and external factors that stimulate employees to take actions that lead to achieving goals. It encompasses various elements such as intrinsic factors like personal growth, fulfillment, and recognition, as well as extrinsic factors like financial rewards, job security, and working conditions. Motivation drives employees to exert high levels of effort towards achieving organizational objectives and personal development. Understanding what motivates employees is crucial for managers because it helps in designing strategies that enhance performance, satisfaction, and retention.
Notable Publications