Human Resources Management Overview
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Questions and Answers

What does HRM stand for, and what is its primary focus?

  • Human Resources Management; enhancing product development
  • Human Resources Management; ensuring legal compliance
  • Human Resources Management; managing people at work (correct)
  • Human Resources Management; managing technology in organizations
  • Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a fundamental aspect of HRM?

  • Marketing (correct)
  • Staffing
  • Training
  • Performance appraisal
  • How can organizations create value through their employees?

  • By decreasing costs or providing unique products or services to customers (correct)
  • By outsourcing their operations to cheaper labor markets
  • By increasing employee salaries disproportionately
  • By hiring more employees than competitors
  • What is one way in which people can be considered a source of competitive advantage?

    <p>When their skills, knowledge, and abilities are not equally available to all competitors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which company's efforts to prevent competitors from hiring its engineers illustrates the value of human resources?

    <p>Dow Chemical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How has HRM's strategic role changed in recent years?

    <p>It has assumed a vital strategic role as organizations compete through people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of human resources makes it difficult to imitate, contributing to competitive advantage?

    <p>Unique skills, knowledge, and abilities of individuals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does empowerment play in increasing the value employees bring to an organization?

    <p>It encourages employees to make decisions that enhance productivity and efficiency.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of gainsharing plans?

    <p>Increasing productivity or saving money in areas under employees' control</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key disadvantage of profit-sharing plans?

    <p>They do not reward individual performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is an annual amount allocated to each employee in a profit-sharing plan?

    <p>Following a formula tied to company profit exceeding a target</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about gainsharing plans is true?

    <p>They involve splitting savings from reduced waste with employees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What motivates employees in a profit-sharing plan?

    <p>Their stake in the overall profitability of the company</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant factor that makes people a source of competitive advantage?

    <p>Their skills and contributions that cannot be copied.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which company is mentioned as creating a unique culture that maximizes employee contributions?

    <p>Whole Foods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What practice is commonly used by companies like Johnson & Johnson and Colgate to fill management positions?

    <p>Promoting from within to leverage existing knowledge.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can effective human resources practices influence a company's performance in the stock market?

    <p>By increasing the overall valuation through strategic management.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used for the strategic value of employee knowledge and abilities?

    <p>Human capital</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge do HR managers face when participating in strategic decision-making?

    <p>Balancing employee interests and company profits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary concern for HR managers regarding their workforce?

    <p>Maintaining a highly motivated and loyal workforce.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which stage is NOT part of the HR planning process?

    <p>Recruiting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What often results from inadequate HR planning regarding staffing needs?

    <p>Layoffs of recently hired employees.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach is essential for a company facing declining business?

    <p>Focusing on human resources activities to assist with layoffs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the four sets of values that HR leaders should advocate for?

    <p>Ethical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is becoming increasingly important in sustaining competitive advantage?

    <p>Employee skills, knowledge, and abilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trend is affecting the focus of HR management globally?

    <p>Increased access to technology.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs when an organization identifies a labor surplus?

    <p>Layoffs or transferring employees to other areas</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of job analysis?

    <p>To provide essential information about essential tasks and job requirements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes a job description?

    <p>An outline of essential tasks, duties, and responsibilities involved in the job</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an advantage of internal recruiting?

    <p>Familiarity between employees and the organization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key disadvantage of relying on internal recruitment?

    <p>It can limit the applicant pool if current employees lack adequate skills</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is commonly used for advertising open positions in internal recruitment?

    <p>Job-posting systems on bulletin boards or intranet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary source of candidates in external recruitment?

    <p>Job boards and company websites</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the concept of 'attrition' refer to in managing a labor surplus?

    <p>The normal turnover of employees over time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can job analysis assist in legal defenses by organizations?

    <p>By specifying job requirements if unfair dismissal claims arise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes an external recruitment method?

    <p>Using employee referrals and internet job boards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the staffing function in HR planning?

    <p>To enhance recruitment, selection, and outplacement processes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key elements indicated in a job specification?

    <p>The knowledge and skills needed to perform the job</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method offers employers insight into external candidates' potential fit for a company?

    <p>Word-of-mouth recommendations from existing employees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of employment agencies when companies pay for their services?

    <p>To narrow down the pool of applicants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which recruiting method can provide applicants with the most up-to-date training?

    <p>Campus recruiting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why must companies be cautious with campus recruiting and employee referrals?

    <p>It could result in a biased applicant pool.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the selection process involve in hiring?

    <p>Choosing which applicants to hire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential disadvantage of unstructured interviews?

    <p>They provide inconsistent information about candidates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a situational interview focused on?

    <p>Hypothetical job-related scenarios</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are behavioral description interviews designed to uncover?

    <p>Candidates' past actions and behavior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of résumés and applications is critical during the initial review?

    <p>Accuracy and absence of mistakes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What enhances the reliability of structured interviews?

    <p>The same questions being asked of all candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a purpose of reference checks?

    <p>To gauge the candidate's fit within the company culture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary challenge associated with demand forecasts in human resources planning?

    <p>Determining the number and type of employees needed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT typically considered when estimating labor supply?

    <p>Projected future sales growth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might an employer use a variety of interview techniques?

    <p>To maximize the effectiveness of gathering information</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can result from reliance on candidate-provided information during hiring?

    <p>Increased risk of hiring dishonest candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has been a common response to the skills shortage faced by organizations?

    <p>Investing in remedial and training budgets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be a consequence of providing false information during the hiring process?

    <p>Loss of credibility and integrity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of supply analysis, how do organizations typically estimate internal supply?

    <p>By relying on experiences with turnover and terminations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method is often employed to ensure effective comparisons across candidates during interviews?

    <p>Adopting structured interviews</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant consequence of the demographic trends affecting the U.S. labor market?

    <p>A shortage of qualified workers in specific fields</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one method companies have used to manage the skills gap in the workforce?

    <p>Setting up internship programs for training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What limitation does the U.S. government impose on H-1B visas?

    <p>Limited to 65,000 college-educated workers annually</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group has significantly contributed to the diversification of the workforce?

    <p>Immigrants and disabled workers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major reason some companies transfer jobs overseas?

    <p>To reduce labor costs due to a skills shortage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the challenges in reconciling supply and demand in human resources?

    <p>Aligning different employee types with specific organizational needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach helps organizations analyze external labor supply?

    <p>Examining workforce trends and demographics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does a computerized human resources information system play in labor supply forecasting?

    <p>It simplifies tracking of employee qualifications and movements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy can companies use to fill positions during times of labor shortages?

    <p>Hire from a broader geographic area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has been a trend among companies in high-demand job sectors regarding recruitment?

    <p>Aggressively hiring before visa quotas are met</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one primary reason HR experts encourage checking references?

    <p>To raise red flags about a candidate's potential hire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why have a number of companies been held liable for negligent hiring?

    <p>They did not conduct adequate background checks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of check is NOT typically included in a background check?

    <p>Character reference check</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a concern regarding the use of personality tests in hiring?

    <p>Candidates might provide dishonest answers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 primarily address?

    <p>Drug testing for federal contractors and employees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a major benefit of conducting cognitive ability tests?

    <p>They measure a range of intellectual abilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most common practice after making a conditional job offer regarding drug testing?

    <p>Waiting until after the job offer to perform drug tests</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do many companies utilize social networking sites in the hiring process?

    <p>To gather insight on candidates’ personalities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is there a legal gray area regarding drug testing for marijuana use?

    <p>Medical marijuana laws vary by state</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do performance tests in hiring measure?

    <p>Actual job performance through tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a drawback of personality tests during hiring?

    <p>Responses can be easily faked or manipulated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of a candidate's preferences might be evaluated through personality tests?

    <p>Social interaction styles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for companies to conduct reference checks?

    <p>To protect themselves legally against hiring mistakes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What trend has been observed concerning the use of personality assessments in recent times?

    <p>Their popularity is currently on the rise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common reason employers face lawsuits related to employment practices?

    <p>Adverse impact</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which legislation prohibits discrimination against individuals aged 40 and over?

    <p>Age Discrimination in Employment Act</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an essential factor for successful training programs in organizations?

    <p>Continuous monitoring and updating</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first phase of the training process?

    <p>Needs assessment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What often results from a specific employment test yielding fewer hires of one group despite equal qualified applicants?

    <p>Adverse impact</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which company is mentioned as investing heavily in employee training?

    <p>General Electric</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do companies need to develop their workforce continuously?

    <p>To handle new challenges and technologies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of training is specifically designed for teaching managers and professionals broader skills?

    <p>Development training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of performance tests in companies?

    <p>To measure candidates' job-related skills</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What types of exercises are typically included in an assessment center?

    <p>Group interactions and individual exercises</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much do U.S. businesses spend annually on formal employee training?

    <p>$125 billion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must employers do according to the WARN Act?

    <p>Give 60 days written notice of layoffs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of criterion-related validity?

    <p>It assesses how well a test predicts job performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why were some employers criticized for requiring current employment during high unemployment periods?

    <p>It was deemed unethical and discriminatory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of written policies in the workplace?

    <p>To ensure fair and legal practices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of content validity?

    <p>A typing test for an administrative assistant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which training phase involves setting training objectives and content?

    <p>Design phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is important for managers to maintain to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to lawsuits?

    <p>Regular and specific evaluations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can polygraph tests be characterized in the context of integrity testing?

    <p>Their use has been banned for most employment purposes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect can layoffs have on remaining employees?

    <p>Disenchantment and decreased morale</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are employers encouraged to monitor to ensure fair pay across employee groups?

    <p>Salaries by race and gender</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of assessors in an assessment center?

    <p>To observe and record candidates' performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common type of performance test?

    <p>Personality assessments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of outplacement services offered by employers?

    <p>To assist dismissed employees in finding new jobs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of a performance test does reliability address?

    <p>The consistency of test scores over time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for a selection process to consider both reliability and validity?

    <p>To improve the chances of finding the best candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes integrity tests?

    <p>They may include questions about candidates' attitudes towards stealing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant challenge organizations face after a layoff?

    <p>Maintaining productivity among remaining workers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant benefit of a well-thought-out dismissal process?

    <p>It helps remaining employees adjust to the new work situation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under the public policy exception to employment-at-will, which action cannot lead to dismissal?

    <p>Refusing to break the law.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'employment-at-will' signify?

    <p>Employers can fire employees for any reason at any time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT an exception to the employment-at-will doctrine?

    <p>Employee absence without notice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method involves practicing in a simulated job environment?

    <p>Vestibule training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is vital for a manager to prepare for a termination interview?

    <p>Knowing all facts and reviewing relevant documents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the immediate response expected from a manager when announcing a termination?

    <p>To provide truthful and respectful answers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common outcome of effective orientation training?

    <p>Improved morale</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Fair Labor Standards Act categorize employees into?

    <p>Exempt and nonexempt employees.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which training method addresses building awareness of diversity issues?

    <p>Diversity training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Performance appraisal serves which of the following purposes?

    <p>Administrative and developmental</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, and religion?

    <p>The Civil Rights Act of 1964.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one benefit of team training?

    <p>Facilitates employee interaction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important consideration for managers regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act?

    <p>It prohibits discrimination against workers with disabilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'progressive disciplinary procedures' refer to?

    <p>Graduated steps to correct workplace behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which training method primarily enhances managers' motivating skills?

    <p>Coaching</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of training is often requested by managers to broaden their experience?

    <p>Job rotation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major consequence can organizations face for violating employment laws?

    <p>Fines and extensive legal fees.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should employers avoid during the layoff process?

    <p>Stringing out layoffs by dismissing a few at a time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which mode of training is noted for being easy and inexpensive to deliver?

    <p>Computer-based training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way can successful performance appraisal directly benefit an employee?

    <p>By earning them a promotion due to clear performance feedback</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a termination interview primarily concerned with?

    <p>Clearly communicating the reasons for termination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the primary focus of management training programs?

    <p>People skills improvement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions by an employer is likely to result in termination being deemed unfair?

    <p>Terminating someone who reports illegal behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which training method focuses on analyzing brands and developing marketing strategies?

    <p>Team training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one effect of poorly conducted performance appraisals?

    <p>Diminished performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which training delivery method is recognized for involving trainees effectively?

    <p>Interactive video games</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary aim of diversity training in the workplace?

    <p>Building awareness of diversity issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of training becomes less important for managers as they rise in an organization?

    <p>Technical skills</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key characteristic of trait appraisals?

    <p>They involve subjective judgments about employee traits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using a behaviorally anchored rating scale (BARS)?

    <p>To provide specific, observable measures of employee performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which performance appraisal method is considered most objective?

    <p>Results appraisals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant drawback of management by objectives (MBO)?

    <p>It can result in unrealistic objectives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic of behavioral appraisals?

    <p>They emphasize observable behaviors rather than traits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which rating scale is often used in trait appraisals?

    <p>Numerical ratings scale</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might appraisal by subordinates be uncomfortable for managers?

    <p>It gives employees power over their superiors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In management by objectives, who agrees on the specific performance goals?

    <p>The employee and the manager.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the critical incident technique involve?

    <p>Documenting significant behaviors reflecting performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a guideline for conducting performance appraisals?

    <p>Base standards on job descriptions and communicate standards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a disadvantage of trait appraisals?

    <p>They can lead to personal bias and ambiguity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage does a behaviorally focused appraisal method provide?

    <p>It provides a more accurate assessment of performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary focus of results appraisals?

    <p>Objective performance data related to outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be a consequence of focusing too heavily on short-term results in appraisals?

    <p>Overlooking important long-term objectives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do internal customers play in performance appraisals?

    <p>They provide insights based on their reliance on an employee's work output.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which appraisal method involves feedback from multiple sources including peers and supervisors?

    <p>360-degree appraisal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a potential downside of the 360-degree appraisal?

    <p>It may cause excess subjectivity in ratings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary objective of performance appraisals using 360-degree feedback?

    <p>To facilitate employee development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can open communication between managers and employees improve performance appraisals?

    <p>It allows employees to feel managed fairly and effectively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When conducting a performance appraisal for a poorly performing employee, what should be prioritized?

    <p>Understanding causes of the low performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is essential for effective performance appraisal feedback?

    <p>Specific and constructive feedback.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is often a conflict experienced during performance appraisals?

    <p>Administrative needs may conflict with individual employee growth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors can influence the effectiveness of 360-degree appraisals?

    <p>Cultural differences among employees.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might self-appraisals be viewed as potentially biased?

    <p>Employees may rate themselves higher than warranted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should managers do to ensure effective follow-up after performance appraisals?

    <p>Document the meeting and agree on a timetable for improvement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the main purposes of ongoing performance feedback instead of annual evaluations?

    <p>To foster an environment of open communication and continuous improvement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should managers focus on during performance appraisals for average employees?

    <p>Summarizing performance with specific examples and clear criteria.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary reasons employers are attempting to reduce benefits costs?

    <p>The costs of medical care are rising rapidly</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'pay level' refer to in designing an effective pay plan?

    <p>The choice to be a high, average, or low-paying company</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are individual incentive plans primarily based on?

    <p>Objective performance standards of the individual employee</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which practice regarding pay decisions can potentially reduce employee motivation?

    <p>Keeping pay decisions confidential</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a consequence of lowering pay levels in an organization?

    <p>Reducing the number of job applications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Group incentive plans are designed to encourage what type of performance?

    <p>Shared performance and participation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor significantly influences the process of developing a pay structure within an organization?

    <p>The complexity of job roles and responsibilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are fringe benefits receiving more management attention nowadays?

    <p>The complexity and percentage of payroll they represent have increased</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of pay decisions is often kept confidential by employers?

    <p>Specific salary amounts for employees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be an advantage of keeping pay decisions secret within an organization?

    <p>Avoiding conflicts and protecting privacy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of compensation is increasingly based on group performance?

    <p>Group incentive plans</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do employers typically establish a pay structure?

    <p>Using seniority and performance distinctions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key motivational tool discussed in the context of HRM activities?

    <p>Monetary rewards such as pay and benefits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes individual incentive plans?

    <p>They link pay directly to an employee's performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Human Resources Management (HRM)

    • HRM, formerly personnel management, is a fundamental aspect of organizational management, impacting all interactions with potential and current employees.
    • HRM's strategic role is vital for organizations to gain a competitive edge through human capital.
    • Effective HRM practices are increasingly associated with higher company valuations.
    • Competitive advantage from HRM depends on four criteria:
      • Value creation: employees increase value by reducing costs or offering unique customer offerings.
      • Rarity: employees with unique skills, knowledge and abilities are not readily available to all competitors.
      • Imitation difficulty: unique company cultures fostered by employee teamwork are hard to replicate.
      • Organization: effective deployment of employees based on their skills and potential, including internal promotion and development systems.

    Strategic HRM Involvement

    • HR experts regularly participate in strategy meetings, analyzing data and suggesting talent acquisition/development strategies.
    • This approach yields positive business outcomes.
    • Today's global competition and increasing workforce diversity make strategic HRM critical due to the need to create, innovate, and manage employee knowledge and skill as a vital resource (Human Capital).

    HR Planning Process

    • Strategic human resources planning is an activity deriving from organizational plans with the aim of acquiring the right number and types of people at the correct time.
    • The process has three stages:
      • Planning: Determining future organizational needs (future growth, company direction).
      • Programming: Implementing recruitment, training, and changes.
      • Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of HR activities in supporting organizational plans.

    Demand and Supply Forecasts

    • Demand Forecasts: Calculating personnel requirements by projecting sales, production levels, etc. derived from the organizations business plan.
    • Labor Supply Forecasts: Estimating the available employees (internal and external) through an assessment of turnover, promotions, etc. and considering external workforce trends.

    Job Analysis and Job Descriptions

    • Job Analysis: Describes essential tasks, duties (Job Description), and skills/attributes (Job Specification) needed to perform jobs.
    • This information is fundamental to HR activities (recruitment, training, selection, performance appraisals, rewards, and defense against lawsuits).
    • The Job Analysis process is key to increasing value added to the organization by employees because it clarifies what is required for effective performance.

    Recruitment

    • Internal Recruiting: Advantages include familiarity with company culture and internal knowledge of employees, but potential drawbacks include limited applicant pool and potential to fail to acquire new skills or approaches.
    • External Recruiting: Advantages include access to fresh perspectives for innovation, disadvantages include potentially higher costs, discouragement of internal employees.
    • Methods include internet job boards, company websites, employee referrals, newspaper ads, campus recruitment, and employment agencies/executive recruiters.

    Selection

    • Selection includes:
      • Applications and Résumés: Initial screening tools, need to be honest and accurate.
      • Interviews: Structured and unstructured interviews used to determine candidates appropriate personality and skills as per job requirements.
        • Structured Interview Types: Situational interviews assess candidate responses in hypothetical scenarios, behavioral description interviews evaluate past behavior related to the job.
      • Reference Checks: Verifying candidate information from previous employers and schools. Crucial to verify honesty, background and prior experience.
      • Background Checks: Social Security, employment history, education, criminal records, driving records, and credit checks.
      • Personality Tests: Assess traits and fit for a job, although reliability and validity remain concerns.
      • Drug Testing: Legally permissible with qualified caveats to avoid discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
      • Cognitive Ability Tests: Measure various intellectual abilities, widely used for employee selection.
      • Performance Tests: Employees perform samples of the job, useful for administrative and clerical positions

    Layoffs and Terminations

    • Layoffs: Difficult but sometimes necessary to reduce workforce size, important to manage the impact on remaining employees through outplacement and a well-thought-out process, for good human relations, care should be taken in communication and fairness.
    • Terminations: Legality and ethical considerations should be taken into account.
    • Employment-at-will: Exception applies to actions that violate public policy. Progressive disciplinary procedures are crucial.
    • Termination Interview Procedure: Ethical and respectful manner in summarizing the situation, and avoiding arguments, offering support and clear communication, and document the termination interview.
    • Many laws govern employment decisions; adverse impact is when seemingly neutral employment practices disproportionately affect a protected group (e.g., women, minorities).
    • Laws include the Fair Labour Standards Act (FLSA), the Civil Rights Act (1964), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN Act).
    • Careful record keeping, legal compliance, and monitoring of wage differences are important for avoiding legal issues.

    Training and Development

    • Training programs, valued at over $125 billion annually, teach basic skills and overall knowledge.
    • Training Types: Orientation Training, Team Training, Diversity Training, Management Training programs (coaching).
    • Training Process Stages: Needs Assessment, Design, Delivery, Evaluation.
    • Training Methods: Lectures, role-playing, simulations, modeling, conferences, vestibule training, apprenticeships.

    Performance Appraisal (PA)

    • PA Purposes: Administrative (salary, promotion, dismissal decisions) and developmental (improve performance, identify training needs).
    • PA Categories: Traits (subjective), Behaviors (observable), Results (objective).
    • Examples of Approaches: BARS (Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales), Critical Incident Technique, Management by Objectives (MBO).
    • Who Should Do the Appraisal: Managers, peers, subordinates, internal and external customers, self-appraisals.
    • 360-degree appraisal: Using multiple sources (supervisors, peers, subordinates, customers) in providing feedback, but may be less useful for simple operational situations.

    Reward Systems and Pay Decisions

    • Pay decisions (level, structure, individual pay) are crucial for attracting, motivating, and retaining employees.
    • Factors influencing pay include labor market conditions and competitor pay.
    • Incentive systems (individual and group) encourage productivity in specific areas (e.g, sales targets).

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    Explore the strategic role of Human Resources Management (HRM) in organizations. This quiz covers the key criteria for competitive advantage through effective HRM practices. Understand how employee value creation, rarity, and unique organizational culture contribute to business success.

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