Moving forward Exploring unique Chinese phenomena and advancing HRM research

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to review the current status of the Journal of Chinese Human Resource Management (JCHRM) in this initial stage and present a number of emerging unique Chinese phenomena for scholarly attention in relation to JCHRM entering its fifth year. Design/methodology/approach – Based on a review of JCHRM’s status, we further reviewed literature and media reports to identify new research opportunities for indigenous Chinese human resource management (HRM) research. Findings – JCHRM has demonstrated its strength and uniqueness in contributing to management knowledge production and dissemination in the first four years, thanks to enthusiastic support from the worldwide research community. Moving forward, we identify a number of intriguing indigenous phenomena, including distinctive social political contexts in state-owned enterprises, emerging trends in embracing the Party Branches (dang zhi bu, 党支部) by multinational corporations (MNCs) in China and the indigenous Chinese suzhi (素质) phenomenon, for new opportunities in Chinese HRM research. Research limitations/implications – The three indigenous phenomena constitute only a few samples. Developing a theoretical understanding of Chinese HRM phenomena has a long way to go. Continued inquiries in this area will not only help build local knowledge on complex organizational dynamics but also enrich the overall management knowledge base. Originality/value – We review the status of JCHRM in its first four years and bring a sample of intriguing indigenous Chinese phenomena to the attention of the worldwide scholarly community for future research.