Reframing Hrm in Smes: Challenges and Dynamics

SMEs face unique challenges directly stemming from their size, which create

pressures, tensions and dilemmas with regard to people management. These

include the liabilities of smallness and newness, as well as resource challenges

pertaining to the attraction, development and retention of the workforce. In turn,

these challenges can give rise to unique HR dynamics in the SME setting. This

edited collection brings together insights from thought leaders in the field of

HRM in SMEs to consider how the interplay of a range of external and internal

factors coalesce to shape the nature, form and meaning of HRM in this setting.

This volume moves beyond traditional accounts which are organised by HR

function or practice area (e.g. recruitment, performance, training) or by

considerations of the applicability of HR (e.g. HR and performance, best practice).

Instead, the contributions are divided in two sections, HR Challenges and HR

Dynamics, demonstrating how the unique setting of the SME must inform any

successful HRM intervention. This volume will be of great interest to students and academics ofHR, employment relations and entrepreneurship, as well as those exploring

professional qualifications.

Ciara Nolan is a Lecturer in Management at Technological University Dublin, City Campus. Her research interests focus on the dynamics of managing and developing people in small firms, with a particular focus on professional service firms and the hospitality industry.

Brian Harney is a Professor of Strategy and HRM at Dublin City University Business School. Brian’s research focuses on the intersection of Strategy and HRM, with a particular focus on SMEs, growth and knowledge-intensive sectors.