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HR Integration, HR Strategy, and HR Partnership - Comparing the "Strategic Partner" between the USA and Germany

Author

Listed:
  • Klaas Szierbowski-Seibel

    (Paderborn University)

  • Marius Claus Wehner

    (Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf)

  • Rüdiger Kabst

    (Paderborn University)

Abstract

Previous research in HRM has repeatedly advocated for a stronger involvement of the HR function in strategy formulation processes and better cooperation with line managers because both promise positive organizational outcomes and competitive advantages. However, empirical evidence of a positive influence of stronger strategic involvement is still limited, especially for the contextual influence of HR strategy and the institutional environment in organizational processes. This study examines whether stronger strategic HR integration in strategy formulation and sharing responsibilities is beneficial for organizations that are located in two diverse institutional environments. Using the responses of 849 German and US-based organizations from the Cranet survey in 2008/2009, the results show that early HR integration into business strategy formulation facilitates the existence of a formal HR strategy. In turn, a formal HR strategy enhances the positive outcomes of sharing responsibilities between the HR function and line management (i.e., HR partnership), whereas HR strategy and business strategy do not appear to be complements for decreasing turnover. Finally, we find differences in the existence of a formal HR strategy and the relationship between HR partnership and turnover among German and US-based organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Klaas Szierbowski-Seibel & Marius Claus Wehner & Rüdiger Kabst, 2019. "HR Integration, HR Strategy, and HR Partnership - Comparing the "Strategic Partner" between the USA and Germany," Working Papers Dissertations 47, Paderborn University, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:pdn:dispap:47
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

    HR partnership; strategic partner; HR strategy; HR integration; employee turnover; new institutionalism (keywords);
    All these keywords.

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