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Globalization and Human Resource
Management: |
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Fatima Fernandez |
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$19.95 |
December 2004 |
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Preface
New challenges brought about by
globalization continue to change the role of human resource management (HRM),
creating an opportunity for us to consider where we are today, the direction we
are going, and what we need to do to get there. Consequently, there is a need
to reexamine how HR policies can best support the rapid and continuous
advancement of globalization. The HR function must change from the traditional
set of clerical administrative tasks to become an integral part of strategy
making and gaining competitive advantage.
Transnational organizations cannot take
time to train top executives in multilingual skills, experience, and global
vision. Developing multicultural organizations is, therefore, the next logical
step to more effective competition in the global market place. In recent years,
many multi- and transnational companies (MNCs/TNCs) in the private sector have
changed their HR strategies from ethnocentric to polycentric and to geocentric.
The United Nations has followed the geocentric model since its inception, in keeping
with UN statutes. The simplicity, clarity, and uniformity of the UN model have
now become immensely appealing to the private sector.
Over decades, the UN has developed a
well-functioning HR system for a multicultural staff environment, both at headquarters
and in its field operations. HRM of the inpatriate concept is one of the most
remarkable success stories of the UN. Yet, this is virtually unknown to the
private sector or the general public. By analyzing the reasons that have led to
its success, it becomes clear the inpatriate model is a winner and can be
transplanted to the private sector. The implications are straightforward and
will have practical impact. In particular, the experience gained from the
diverse multicultural backgrounds in the working environment develops tolerance
for all races, awareness of differences, and appreciation of cultures, all of
which are vital to expatriate success rates, creating a win-winn situation.
This book analyzes the research done on MNCs/TNCs, compares
HR strategies and practices of the UN system to those of the private sector,
and shows how these can be modified to suit the objectives of both the private
and public sectors.
Part I of the book begins with the history of globalization
that has lead to the transformation of TNCs and the need for HR specialists to
reexamine how policies can best address the rapid and continuous advancement of
globalization. It further introduces the main aspects of HRM and the roles of
the HR function and HR specialists.
Part II reviews key HRM processes, provides conceptual
frameworks for the private and public sectors. It examine strategic HRM,
staffing and compensation, training, career and performance management, and
strategic planning. HR leaders must play an increasingly important role as a
value-added function in organizations. The conclusions are based on best
practices and lead to recommendations for improved global HRM in both the
private and public sectors.