Identifying Factors Affecting Career Success of Imam Khomeini International University’s Female Employees
Subject Areas :Mahdi Nasrollahi 1 , Yahya Khanmohammadi 2
1 - Assistant Professor, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
2 - Imam Khomeini International University
Keywords: Career success, Individual factors, Demographic, Motivation, Personality.,
Abstract :
Given the rise in the number of female graduates and their inclination to participate in social roles, the need for jobs commensurate with their level of education becomes essential. Career success, as a multidimensional concept, is influenced by various factors including individual, environmental, and organizational characteristics. In this context, identifying the factors affecting career success can help improve working conditions and enhance the capabilities of female employees. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify individual factors influencing the career success of female employees at the IKIU. This research is of an applied nature. The statistical population of the study included all female employees of the university, who were surveyed through a census of 100 individuals. The data collection tool was a questionnaire with 146 questions. In this study, structural equation modeling and factor analysis were used to investigate the individual factors affecting the career success of female employees and to identify latent variables, ensuring data validity by using software such as EXCEL, SPSS, and PLS. Additionally, convergent and discriminant validity, as well as composite reliability and Cronbach's alpha, were used to determine validity and reliability. The findings from the 74 collected questionnaires indicate that the factor loadings for all variables under study are at a desirable level (β > 0.5), which is indicative of the construct's validity and reliability. The analyses show that conscientiousness, agreeableness, occupational motivation, motivation for public service, work-family conflict, number of children, and age have a positive impact on career success. In contrast, factors such as self-esteem, openness, extraversion, neuroticism, masculinity, marital status, education, and experience do not affect career success. These results are particularly important in the field of managerial positions for women in male-dominated organizations where the number of female employees is significantly lower than that of men. Therefore, the necessary conditions should be provided for female employees to be given opportunities to experience various job responsibilities. Ultimately, this research can serve as a reliable source for identifying and analyzing factors affecting the career success of female employees in universities. Given the importance and status of employees in the university system, there is a need for continuous improvement and enhancement of scientific capabilities, professional skills, and expertise on the agenda of higher education policymakers. This study can be used as a guide for university policymakers and administrators to improve working conditions and enhance the career success of female employees, helping to identify and address existing obstacles in this area.