Human Resource Management in Early Internationalised SMEs

This book examines HR practices in early internationalized SMEs, focusing on the post-entry phase. It integrates two streams of research, providing managers with useful information on dealing with internationalization-related challenges. The discussion is based on a survey and case studies, offering a state-of-the-art overview of managing human resources in SMEs expanding internationally.

Format: Hardback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to the global economy, warranting increased attention in business literature and academic research. Recent studies have revealed a diverse range of international activities undertaken by SMEs expanding abroad, with a notable prevalence of early internationalized enterprises, often referred to as "born global." Despite the acknowledged importance of human capital for SME internationalization, a persistent knowledge gap exists regarding HR practices in this context. To date, research on the accelerated internationalization of SMEs has primarily focused on the human capital of decision-makers or selected attributes of employees, primarily at the pre-entry or entry stages. Consequently, activities performed after entering foreign markets remain relatively unexplored.

This book aims to bridge this gap and contribute to the growing body of knowledge concerning HR practices in early internationalized SMEs, with a particular emphasis on the post-entry phase. By adopting a comprehensive approach, this volume integrates two research streams: HRM in SMEs and international business. It offers valuable insights to managers of SMEs by providing a range of practices, such as work structuring, recruitment and selection, training and development, employee appraisal and remuneration, and performance management, to address the challenges associated with internationalization. The discussion of these issues is grounded in data derived from a survey conducted on 200 SMEs and case studies that exemplify HR practices in early internationalized small and medium enterprises. This book serves as a state-of-the-art overview for academic researchers, postgraduate students, and reflective practitioners, providing a comprehensive understanding of managing human resources in the context of SME internationalization.

Weight: 435g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032335186