Personnel Psychology – General HR Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Personnel Psychology for High-Impact Publications

Personnel Psychology stands as a cornerstone in the field of industrial and organizational psychology, providing a premier outlet for groundbreaking research on human behavior in work settings. Established in 1948, this journal has evolved into a vital resource for scholars exploring the intricacies of personnel management, employee selection, training, and performance evaluation. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and empirically sound studies see publication, making it a preferred choice for academics aiming to advance knowledge in General HR and related disciplines.

The journal's commitment to bridging theory and practice is evident in its diverse array of topics, from psychometric assessments to organizational development strategies. Researchers value Personnel Psychology for its ability to disseminate work that influences both academia and industry. With a strong emphasis on methodological rigor, contributions often employ advanced statistical techniques and longitudinal designs to uncover insights into workplace dynamics. The publication's global reach amplifies the visibility of authors' findings, fostering collaborations and citations that propel careers forward.

Personnel Psychology's editorial team, comprising experts from top institutions, upholds high standards while encouraging interdisciplinary approaches. Whether investigating diversity in hiring practices or the impact of leadership on employee well-being, the journal addresses pressing contemporary issues in human resources. Its hybrid open-access model allows authors to choose between traditional subscription-based dissemination and broader accessibility through article processing charges, balancing reach with sustainability.

For those in General HR, publishing here signifies excellence and relevance. The journal's archives offer a rich repository of seminal works that continue to shape the field. Aspiring contributors should align their manuscripts with the journal's focus on practical implications alongside theoretical contributions. To explore opportunities in industrial-organizational psychology careers, visit our I/O Psychology Faculty Positions page.

Overview & History

Personnel Psychology was founded in 1948 by the Personnel Psychology Foundation, with the goal of advancing scientific understanding of personnel practices. Initially focused on post-World War II workforce challenges, it quickly became a key platform for industrial psychology research. Over the decades, the journal has published influential studies on topics like validity of selection tests and motivation theories, shaping HR policies worldwide.

Published quarterly by John Wiley & Sons, it maintains a tradition of excellence under various editors. Key milestones include its adoption of advanced quantitative methods in the 1970s and emphasis on diversity and inclusion in recent years. Today, it serves as a bridge between psychological science and organizational management, attracting submissions from leading universities and think tanks.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within industrial-organizational psychology and human resource management. Core areas include personnel selection, training and development, performance management, compensation, and organizational behavior. It welcomes research on emerging issues such as remote work impacts and AI in HR.

Key Journal Metrics

Personnel Psychology boasts impressive metrics that underscore its influence in the field. These indicators help researchers evaluate its suitability for submissions.

Indexing and Abstracting

Personnel Psychology is widely indexed, ensuring maximum discoverability. It appears in major databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, and ABI/INFORM. This coverage facilitates citations and interdisciplinary access. Researchers can search abstracts via PsycINFO or Scopus. No DOAJ listing as it is not fully open access.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Personnel Psychology offers both subscription access and open-access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with articles behind a paywall unless funded otherwise. For open access, authors pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,800, granting immediate worldwide access under a Creative Commons license. No page charges apply. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green archiving compliant, allowing preprint deposits.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Manuscripts are submitted online via the journal's portal at Wiley's ScholarOne. Guidelines require double-blind review, with submissions formatted in APA style, up to 40 pages including references. Emphasize originality, clear implications, and ethical standards. Initial screening takes 2-4 weeks, followed by peer review averaging 3 months. Revisions are common, with final decisions within 6 months.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board features distinguished scholars. Editor-in-Chief Zhen Zhang from the University of Minnesota leads with expertise in leadership and teams. Associate Editors include Ann Marie Ryan (Michigan State) on selection and Paula Caligiuri (Northeastern) on global mobility. Members hail from institutions like Harvard and SIOP, ensuring diverse perspectives.

Why Publish in Personnel Psychology?

Publishing in Personnel Psychology elevates a researcher's profile due to its high visibility and citation rates. It connects theoretical advancements with real-world HR applications, appealing to both academics and practitioners. The journal's prestige aids in tenure and funding pursuits. For career enhancement, check Rate My Professor for insights from peers.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Personnel Psychology compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, ensure your study addresses a gap with robust data. Use mixed methods where appropriate and discuss limitations transparently. Tailor abstracts to highlight HR implications. Engage with recent issues for context. Track HR Conferences for networking. Finally, proofread meticulously and seek co-author feedback.