2.1 Functions and evolution of HRM

Question 1

A form of flexible work practice that enables employees to work a set number of core hours each week, often at the office during peak periods of the day and/or week.

Answer 1

Flexitime

Question 2

The employer’s decision to terminate a worker’s employment contract, usually due to the worker’s incompetence and/or a breach of their employment contract.

Answer 2

Dismissal

Question 3

A type of appraisal system that provides feedback from a range of people who work with or interact with the appraisee, such as their line manager, co-workers, subordinates and even customers.

Answer 3

360-degree appraisal

Question 4

Type of training that focuses on developing the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills of workers.

Answer 4

Behavioural training

Question 5

This is the provision of work-related education, either on-the-job or off-the-job.

Answer 5

Training

Question 6

The process of employers selecting the most suitable applicants and inviting them for a job interview.

Answer 6

Shortlisting

Question 7

The career advancement of an employee in terms of their hierarchical ranking and professional responsibilities.

Answer 7

Promotion

Question 8

The issues or factors that are beyond the control of the organization, e.g. minimum wage legislation.

Answer 8

External factors (STEEPLE analysis)

Question 9

The ability and willingness of employees to relocate to another location or country for work reasons.

Answer 9

Geographical mobility

Question 10

Also known as subcontracting, this is the use of external (third-party) personnel for certain non-core business operations.

Answer 10

Outsourcing

Question 11

Also known as a performance review, this is the formal procedure of assessing the performance and effectiveness of an employee, in relation to his/her job description.

Answer 11

Appraisal

Question 12

The ability and willingness of employees to do another job or pursue a different career.

Answer 12

Occupational mobility

Question 13

A higher average age of the population.

Answer 13

Ageing population

Question 14

The issues or features that are within the control of the organization, e.g. staff remuneration and approaches to training.

Answer 14

Internal factors

Question 15

The opposite of offshoring, as it is the process of bringing back business operations, such as manufacturing, that were previously offshored.

Answer 15

reshoring

Question 16

A type of appraisal system that involves the individual employee reflecting on and rating his/her own performance against the pre-agreed standards.

Answer 16

Self-appraisal