Human resource management barriers : the case of Jordanian companies

Abstract EN

In this study barriers to effective implementation of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices in Jordanian organisations were identified in an exploratory theory-building study that focuses on determining factors that may affect the effectiveness of HRM in Jordanian organisations.

It targets all Jordanian organisations listed in Amman Stocks Exchange (ASE) at the end of 2007.

The study adopts the same research strategy adopted by studies using the multiple constituency perspective that necessarily include assessments of HRM by non-HRM staff.

A purposive or judgmental sampling technique was applied by targeting HRM managers, HRM staff, line managers and top managers as participants of the study.

The study reveals that the most dominant obstacles facing HRM in Jordanian organisations were: lack of top management recognition of the real roles that HRM could play; lack of top management commitment toward HRM; lack of HRM power and influence to make real change and impact on organisations' performance; and lack of influence and credibility for HRM staff to develop and implement an HRM programs and to undertake additional proactive roles.