Human Resources Management Commons^™

Drivers Of Employee Success And Productivity: Analyzing The Role Of An Executive Recruiting Intern, Hayden Raycher

Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Undergraduate Honors Theses

For an experiential thesis over an internship experience in collaboration with the University of Arkansas and my advisor, Dr. Michael Popp, I collected data over a 9-month period relevant to my internship at Stout Executive Search, an executive recruiting firm. The purpose of the research was to explore the factors that influence productivity in a recruiting environment and provide quantifiable insights into the impact of different job-related achievements towards overall employee success. The research was initially designed to encompass evidence and commentary on training regimens and company culture, as well as job experience, with the latter becoming the sole focus …

Cultural Intelligence Recruitment: A Reflection Of Communication And Marketing At Wallace Myers International, Emily Salazar Coutino

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

In an increasingly interconnected global economy, effective international talent acquisition hinges on the ability to navigate cultural diversity and communicate authentically across borders. This reflective thesis, anchored in a two-month internship at Wallace Myers International, a Dublin-based recruitment agency, examines how the cultural backgrounds of consultants and interns from Germany, France, Italy, Hong Kong, and the U.S. influence workplace communication, employer branding, and recruitment marketing. Drawing on Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory and Inglehart’s Theory of Cultural Transformation, the study analyzes observed communication dynamics among a diverse multinational team and their impact on candidate engagement and client relations. It explores the …

The Effects Of Vocational Self-Concept Crystallization And Career Choice On Crop Farming Apprenticeship Completers: An Exploratory Qualitative Analysis, Stormy Zane Speaks

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Across the United States, a farmer shortage threatens the future of food production as the population continues to grow. However, farming apprenticeship programs may be a solution to this crisis. This study addressed a gap in research regarding the career decision-making processes of farm apprenticeship completers. Specifically, this study sought to identify whether farm apprenticeship completion resulted in greater vocational self-concept crystallization as well as farming as a career choice. Due to the lack of research, an exploratory qualitative research design was most suitable for this study. Donald Super’s self-concept development theory was the theoretical framework. Self-concept development theory was …

Integrating People And Technology: Exploring The Validation Of The King And Hughes Hrd, Technology Ethics, And Leadership Scale, Hannah King

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

People and technologies have coexisted within organizations for centuries. In the wave of the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions, however, organizations must place an emphasis on ethically integrating new technologies, like artificial intelligence, alongside people in order to sustain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. A review of the literature identified a need for more research examining ethics in the use of technology by HRD professionals. The purpose of this descriptive research study was to assess the relationship between HRD activities, ethics, and technology and examine the influence that an organization’s code of ethics has on their integration. This study …

Exploring Retention And Satisfaction Among Arkansas County-Level Cooperative Extension Employees: A Job Embeddedness Perspective, Rebecca M. Simon

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Abstract This quantitative study investigated the retention of county-level employees within the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service (CES) using Job Embeddedness Theory (JET) as the theoretical framework. The research aimed to describe levels of job embeddedness, job satisfaction, and intent to stay, and to examine the relationships among these variables. A census of 328 CES employees was conducted, yielding a 53% response rate. Data were collected through a validated online survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression. Results indicated high scores in organizational fit and sacrifice dimensions, while links to organization and community were comparatively lower. Age …

Employee Engagement In The Manufacturing Industry, Aubrey A. Miller

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The primary objective of this paper is to analyze employee engagement in the manufacturing industry while explaining the implementation processes for putting engagement initiatives in place. Employee engagement has shown to have an impact on overall business performance and this paper examines the original introduction of engagement in a workplace setting, theories relating to employee engagement, the need for engagement in the manufacturing industry, the key drivers of employee engagement, and human resource practices. This paper also walks through my 10-week internship with Klein Tools, and the processes I took to implementing employee engagement methods at Klein Tools’ manufacturing plant …

Bridging The Gap: Management Vs. Leadership And The Path To Mastering Both, Wesley A. Key

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

Management and leadership, though often conflated, represent distinct but complementary skills that are critical for organizational success. This thesis aims to explore the fundamental differences between management and leadership, highlighting how these roles interact and the necessity for individuals to master both to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from psychology, organizational behavior, and case studies, this research synthesizes academic literature to address key questions: What core competencies distinguish leaders from managers? How do these competencies align or conflict with one another in real-world settings? And what practical steps can individuals take to develop proficiency in …

Administering Grant-Subsidized Workforce Training: A Critical Case Study, Kaleb Preston Futch

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Grant monies are distributed for the purpose of funding workforce training programs aimed at affecting the skills gap in the United States. While research has shown that these grants are being awarded, there is not a well-established standard for designing and implementing the programs they fund. This study focuses on recording and classifying the lived experiences of grant staff working on a state funded workforce training program in the United States. This study will employ a qualitative case study approach designed to capture and codify, in the words of those most familiar with it, the aspects of the grant program …

Evaluating The Impact Of Work-Based Learning On Postsecondary Completion And Job Placement Of Electronics Technology Students, Amanda J. Seidenzahl

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The manufacturing industry today is facing a critical shortage in the availability of talent and skills needed in an ever-changing technological workforce. With an estimated 2.1 million jobs in the manufacturing industry predicted to be unfilled by 2030, organizations are struggling to find a workforce with the skills needed for this evolving industry (NAM, 2020; Ahmad, 2019). Employers have often suggested there is a lack of alignment between classroom experience in higher education, and work-based learning (WBL) is one option to bridge this gap (Krishnamoorthy & Keating, 2021). WBL provides real world experiences that connect learning in the classroom (Krishnamoorthy …

Employee Development And Employee Resilience In The Post-Covid-19 Workplace: A Quantitative Study Of High School Educators, Amy Keiser Maffei

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The problem addressed by this research is the need for protective factors to support teacher resilience. Organizations that fail to develop employee resilience risk failing to enjoy the positive outcomes associated with it. Research-based methods to improve resilience may benefit organizations, including school districts. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between employee development provided by a school district and the resilience of its high school teachers in the post-Covid-19, in-person workplace. Conservation of Resources theory served as the framework to guide the research. Study participants completed a questionnaire with Likert-style response options, with items to assess …

Diversity Equity And Inclusion Education: An Evaluation Of The Safe Zone Allies Program, Shannon E. Hart

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion gained unprecedented popularity from 2019 to 2022. The tide turned in 2023, and Anti-DEI legislation continues to gain momentum nationwide. This backlash may be warranted, as research demonstrates that DEI can backfire. DEI programs remain unregulated, understudied, and often paradoxically under-supported despite their potential to catalyze positive social change. Two studies were conducted to begin creating standardized, accessible, and evidence-based DEI best practices. Safe Zone Allies, a LGBTQIA+ specific DEI program was selected for program review because; (a) it was not developed hastily, (b) it was not siloed, and (c) the curriculum is evidence-based. The first …

2023 Community Bank Case Study Competition, Joseph Kelly

Finance Undergraduate Honors Theses

We studied a community bank in Danville, Arkansas named Chambers Bank. This was part of a 2023 Community Bank Case Study Competition, which illustrated the financial analysis, staffing, and training of the bank. We learned about technology implemented into the bank, and how the bank works with customers locally to ensure the best quality care.

2023 Community Bank Case Study Competition, Alivia Brewer

Finance Undergraduate Honors Theses

Study of Chambers Bank, located in Danville, Arkansas for the 2023 Community Bank Case Study Competition. This paper covers financial analysis, training and technology, as well as staffing.

Gym Sexual Harassment And Bystander Intervention: An Application Of The Reasoned Action Approach, Eric Schisler

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Objective. The purpose of this study was to modify and validate an instrument to examine factors associated with being an active bystander when witnessing sexual harassment at a gym or fitness center. Using Fishbein and Ajzen’s Reasoned Action Approach (RAA), this study aimed to better understand the influence of a person’s attitude, social norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on their intention to be an active bystander when witness to someone being sexually harassed at the gym in the next 30 days. Methodology. This study utilized an exploratory sequential mixed methods design, with phase one taking place between June and …

Co-Creating A Process Of Tacit Knowledge Seeking Using Appreciative Inquiry: An Exploratory Case Study, Kristina Lewis

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

In today’s dynamic workplaces, knowledge exchange among employees is vital for organizational innovation and competitive advantage. However, existing literature on knowledge management has primarily focused on knowledge sharing, neglecting the proactive process of knowledge seeking, particularly regarding tacit knowledge. This study aims to bridge this gap by exploring the social process of tacit knowledge seeking in the workplace. Using appreciative inquiry as a method for collecting data, this qualitative exploratory single case study examines how employees seek tacit knowledge in an international consumer products organization. Guided by a social constructionist framework and appreciative perspective, the study seeks to understand the …

Mental Health In College Journalists: Recognizing Causes Of Trauma And Recommendations For Training In College Programs, Sydney R. Mulvenon

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

News reporting serves as an important vehicle for sharing breaking news across diverse communities, yet it often entails significant stressors. Some news reporters may experience trauma while covering challenging stories or navigating negative experiences within the newsroom. Many professionals in journalism have expressed concerns about the lack of awareness of mental health in the field. Addressing this need, this research using a documentary format, explores the need for integrating trauma training and awareness initiative into college-level journalism programs. Drawing on stories from former journalists and other professionals connected to journalism, this documentary highlights the pressing need for trauma-focused coursework to …

The Intersection Of Employee Engagement And Employee Health: A Quantitative Evaluation Of The Use Of Engagement Tactics In Improving The Health Of A Workforce, Andrew Buffenbarger

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Employers have a vested interest in the health of employees, but employee wellness programs have not proven themselves an effective tactic for employers to motivate employees to live healthier lives. Employees who suffer from chronic disease are less productive than healthier peers, are more expensive to insure, have higher rates of absenteeism, and are more prone to suffer from performance-reducing levels of stress and burnout (Shuck et al., 2021; Jones et al., 2019; Mattke et al., 2013). The problem is that employee wellness programs are often not effective at improving the health of employee populations (Song & Baicker, 2019; Jones …

The Impact Of The Corporate Workspace On Employee Happiness And Turnover Rate, Sarah Ayla Johnston

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The physical workspace is one that we can see, touch and smell (Morgan, 2018). From the floor layout to the furniture that fills the space, it all makes up the physical workspace where employees come to work. Physical workspaces can also include a cafeteria, gym, arcade area, etc. Prior studies have shown that small, yet meaningful modifications can be made to achieve an optimal workspace (Heitzman, 2018). The purpose of this study is to collect data from employees who conduct work in different office layouts to see how their physical workspace affects their overall happiness and their intent of staying …

Beyond Boarders For First-Generation Students, Nayeli Ortiz

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

1. Tabeling at TRIO and Multicultural Center events

2. Require academic advisors to have at least one conversation with every student about studying abroad (never assume a student is not interested or unable to go)

3. Overtly feature first-generation study abroad students in social media and Hogs Abroad website.

4. Network interested students with students who have completed study abroad

5. Offer a promotional study-abroad program for first-generation students

6. Promote funding information and add more first-generation specific scholarships

Increasing Employee Retention And Satisfaction In A Post-Covid-19 World, Kaylen Aldridge

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

It is extremely rare for something to happen that impacts the entirety of the human population. Three years ago it did and it will continue to have lasting impacts far into the future. The COVID-19 pandemic was a massive global event that completely altered the world. Not only did the pandemic force people into new situations, but it completely altered the way people live.

This paper will explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on employment in the United States and around the world. It will review behavior patterns and relevant literature, include a personal interview with the researcher who …

The Family Medical Leave Act: The Current Regulations And Future Recommended Changes, Olivia Schmidt

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The Family Medical Leave Act was implemented in 1993, affecting thousands of employees. This act allows caregivers the time to care for their loved ones and for people to take the time they need to heal and care for themselves, all while maintaining their careers. While the workforce and it’s needs have changed over the years, FMLA has remained stagnant with minimal adjustments at the federal level. There are many different aspects to FMLA including different state regulations, different industry effects, and the special case of the airline industry. While FMLA was an important change in 1993, it needs to …

Recruiting Gen Z: An Emerging Talent Internship Thesis At Petsmart, Emma Jewell Symancyk

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

During the summer of 2021, I served as the Emerging Talent intern in Human Resources for PetSmart. While this internship was virtual, PetSmart is the largest pet retailer and is headquartered in Phoenix Arizona. I served as the Human Resources intern in Emerging Talent. The Emerging Talent team is responsible for recruiting and developing the future talent of PetSmart through identifying diverse top-caliber talent and positioning the organization as an employer of choice. Over the summer, I was tasked with developing a campus ambassador program for talent acquisition to increase diversity in the variety of roles and programs that Emerging …

Help Or Hindrance: How Social Media Affects The Selection And Hiring Processes Of Businesses, Alexandra Krska

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Continually, young people have been advised to be conscientious of the imagery they put on social media regarding their personal lives in preparation for employment selection. However, the use of social media in the selection process may cause Human Resource professionals to have inadvertent biases toward candidates among other moral and ethical issues. Through extensive research of the thoughts and actions of a plethora of different corporate professionals, I will analyze whether using social media as a tool in the selection process authentically produces positive unbiased results, or whether social media poses more ethical issues. With the hopes to create …

An Investigation Of Tax Assessors’ Perception Of The Relationship Between Proactive Career Management Behaviors (Pcmbs) And Career Success: Determining The Most Valuable Career Management Behaviors, Daniel K. Berry

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate government and private-sector tax assessors’ perceptions of the relationship between proactive career management behaviors (PCMBs) and career success. The findings of the study established a foundation to assist government and private-sector tax assessor organizations with developing the human capital within and the careers of their employees. The study’s findings revealed that all four of the PCMBs (career planning, career self-exploration, environmental career exploration, and voluntary human capital development) had significant relationships to career success when tested with a multiple regression model. The study’s findings also revealed that there was no significant difference …

Case Study Of Otis: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, And Mattering In Onboarding Practices, Caitlin Skolasky

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

It was during the Summer of 2021 that I completed a sales internship at Otis Elevator Company in Nashville, Tennessee. Throughout this time, other interns and I conducted a project regarding the diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and mattering (DEIBM) aspects of onboarding. After presenting ways that their company could improve the process, I wanted to dive deeper into the many different topics that this can cover for all organizations. It is important to note just how crucial the onboarding process as well as the variety of applicants that employers should understand the pain points of is when it comes to …

Addressing Mental Health Of Hospitality Employees: An Exploratory Study, Chase Izell

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Exacerbated by a global pandemic, mental health challenges within hospitality professionals are an area of growing prevalence and concern for the industry. Historically unaddressed, these issues are continuing to impact the morale of essential talent which is promoting a culture of turnover that defines the industry today. Aside from the direct costs incurred by voluntary employee termination, the indirect costs to workplace culture and guest satisfaction have furthered the overall financial impact of a largely untreated problem. The objective of this research is to provide evidence of declining mental health in the hospitality industry while illuminating the key contributors to …

Implementing A Micro-Business Internship Program In Dangriga, Belize, Shaadee Shojai

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Over the Summer, I was able to work with Peacework in Belize through the University of Arkansas. While I was unable to physically go to Belize due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, I feel that I was still able to learn about the culture, in both the casual and business workplace, as well as help the people of Dangriga. The goal of my project was to help consult with the Tourism Department of Dangriga to help develop their small business into businesses that were more appealing to tourists. Unfortunately, most people who own small businesses in Dangriga can’t support themselves with …

Pay Negotiations Differences In Men And Women How Gender’S Effect On Self-Advocacy Contributes To Sex Discrimination In Corporations, Laurel Mccabe

Information Systems Undergraduate Honors Theses

Sex discrimination comes in many shapes and colors, such as not wanting to hire pregnant women, passing women up for promotions because of their status of motherhood, women being more likely to be removed from their upper management positions when things go wrong compared to their male counterparts, and economic differences in negotiated outcomes based on gender. Sex discrimination is something organizations should be concerned with their participation in and facilitation of and examine, internally, how to diminish its effect on female employees. Organizations need to clarify that wages are negotiable and increase visibility into compensation plans, hiring, and promotions. …

Theranos: Case Study And Examination Of The Fraud Triangle, Abbey Jennings

Finance Undergraduate Honors Theses

Fraud is a serious issue which carries significant implications. Fraud committed by top level managers is particularly grievous, as it ripples through a firm, harming the company’s shareholders, employees, and credibility, while posing a threat to individuals and society (Zahra, et al.). A common framework in auditing, the fraud triangle, outlines three factors that if present, increase the risk or enable fraud to occur. The three factors are incentive, opportunity, and rationalization to commit fraud (Barlow).

In 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged Elizabeth Holmes, founder and CEO of a supposedly groundbreaking health tech company, Theranos, with what …

Understanding Supply Chain Management: A Necessary Skill For Salespeople?, Lindsey Jetton

Supply Chain Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The purpose of this research is to explore phenomena within the experience of consumer packaged goods (CPG) account representatives in customer-facing roles by investigating the impact of supply chain training, experience, and skills on sales role effectiveness in CPG companies. Findings suggest that skills needed for sales include technical competency, excellent communication skills, and the knowledge to keep commitments. Supply chain understanding within their industry impacts these identified skills by removing confusion, improving identification with their company, realistically aligning customer expectations, and building confidence.