What are the main concerns of human resource managers in organizations?

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines whether high involvement work programs (HIWP) are included in, and respond to, the priorities of HR managers in organizations. We analyze reports to identify the main concerns for managers, and compare the solutions implemented to address them, to evaluate the extent to which HIWP are adopted to meet these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach: To conduct this study we carried out a systematic literature review, selecting reports by consulting firms and human resource management associations.

Findings: Our key findings from this research suggest that HIWP are used as a lever for change to meet the challenges faced by HR managers in organizations, the most urgent of which are talent management and improving leadership.

Research limitations/implications: The paper identifies possible lines of research that respond specifically to the interests of the professional ambit and would be better appreciated by HR managers in companies

Practical implications: The issues raised are relevant to HR professionals, allowing them to compare their priorities against those of managers occupying similar positions, and to view a selection of the most commonly used programs to solve priority problems. This enables HRMs to plan ahead and prepare by providing them with an overview of the most important challenges they have to face.

Originality/value: On the one hand in the professional arena, as they provide professionals with an overview of the challenges they face, so they can plan optimal HR management programs, work methods geared and identify improvement opportunities. And on the other hand, in the academic sphere, our study opens possible future research lines that may contribute to the development of the profession, identify research lines that genuinely address the concerns of professionals and could help reduce the gap that some researchers have identified between the academic and professional spheres.