Human Resource Management: Gaining a Competitive Advantage

Please answer all of the questions below in APA style, 1-2 paragraphs per question, be descriptive and thorough in your responses; consider grammar and spelling.

Chapter 1: Human Resource Management: Gaining a Competitive Advantage

1.1. Traditionally, human resource management practices were developed and administered by the company’s human resource department. Managers are now playing a major role in developing and implementing HRM practices. Why do you think non-HR managers are becoming more involved in developing and implementing HRM practices?

1.2. Staffing, training, compensation, and performance management are important HRM functions. How can each of these functions help companies succeed in meeting the global challenge, the challenge of using new technology, and the sustainability challenge?

1.3. Which HR practices can benefit by the use of social collaboration tools like Twitter and Facebook? Identify the HR practices and explain the benefits gained.

1.4. Do you agree with the statement “Employee engagement is something companies should be concerned about only if they are making money”? Explain.

Chapter 2: Strategic Human Resource Management

2.1. Do you think that it is easier to tie human resources to the strategic management process in large or in small organizations? Why?

2.2. Consider one of the organizations you have been affiliated with. What are some examples of human resource practices that were consistent with that organization’s strategy? What are examples of practices that were inconsistent with its strategy?

2.3. What types of specific skills (such as knowledge of financial accounting methods) do you think HR professionals will need in order to have the business, professional-technical, change management, and integrative competencies necessary in the future? Where can you develop each of these skills?