Employer branding: impact of HR practices and social responsibility on recruitment and performance in SMEs

Employer branding significantly influences how potential and current employees perceive an organisation, impacting talent attraction, employee satisfaction, and overall organisational success. This study examines employer branding in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on how human resources (HR) practices and corporate social responsibility (CSR) shape recruitment, employee retention, and organisational performance. Based on a literature review and thematic analysis of the focus group data from six countries, findings highlight the importance of transparent recruitment, effective onboarding, and employee development in building a strong employer brand. The study concludes that integrating HR and CSR strategies is essential for improving organisational performance while also enhancing reputation and competitiveness, particularly within SMEs.