Unit 1 revised

Question 1

What is human resource management (HRM)?

Answer 1

Managing employees & recognising them as vital assets to the organisation.

Question 2

What is the ability and willingness to adapt and adjust to changes in the business environment called?

Answer 2

Flexibility

Question 3

What is the ability to respond swiftly and
effectively to changes and challenges called?

Answer 3

Agility

Question 4

Summarise the historical development
of HRM.

Answer 4

Scientific management - examining jobs to see how much work can be done in a set time.
The human relations approach - the effectiveness of an organisation is dependent on the quality of relationships among employees
The human resource (HR) approach - managing employees for the success of the organisation, depends on human resources.

Question 5

Discuss the importance of agility and
flexibility of HRM in a contemporary
environment.

Answer 5

To manage employee skills and abilities
To adapt HRM approaches and practices
To influence workforce behaviour

Question 6

Discuss how the macroenvironment affects organisations in South Africa.

Answer 6

STEEPLE analysis approach
Social - employment stats, level of education
Technological - communication, data storage
Environmental - climate change, pollution
Ethical - moral inclination
Political - corruption, political stability
Legal - BCEA, LRA, EEA
Economic - employee remuneration, retirements

Question 7

Describe how the microenvironment influences HRM in a South African organisation.

Answer 7

Trade unions protect employees’ interests and working conditions.
The labour supply & demand affect compensation offered to employees.
Competition
Location of the organisation
Client satisfaction, customer satisfaction

Question 8

Identify possible careers in HRM.

Answer 8

Talent specialists find the best candidates for employment positions.
Learning & development specialists train employees to promote organisational effectiveness.
Payroll specialists manage payroll aspects.
HR administrators manage HR aspects in the HRM department.
HR managers supervise HRM functions.
HR specialists provide guidance on effective HRM as contractors.
Health & safety officers balance employee safety in the organisation.