International HRM Insights for Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Future Research and Practice

Paula Caligiuri, Helen De Cieri, Dana Minbaeva*, Alain Verbeke, Angelika Zimmermann

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterResearchpeer-review

Abstract

We show the relevance of extant international business (IB) research, and more specifically work on international human resources management (IHRM), to address COVID-19 pandemic challenges. Decision-makers in multinational enterprises have undertaken various types of actions to alleviate the impacts of the pandemic. In most cases these actions relate in some way to managing distance and to rethinking boundaries, whether at the macro- or firm-levels. Managing distance and rethinking boundaries have been the primary focus of much IB research since the IB field was established as a legitimate area of academic inquiry. The pandemic has led to increased cross-border distance problems (e.g., as the result of travel bans and reduced international mobility), and often also to new intra-firm distancing challenges imposed upon previously co-located employees. Prior IHRM research has highlighted the difficulties presented by distance, in terms of employee selection, training, support, health and safety, as well as leadership and virtual collaboration. Much of this thinking is applicable to solve pandemic-related distance challenges. The present, extreme cases of requisite physical distancing need not imply equivalent increases in psychological distance, and also offer firms some insight into the unanticipated benefits of a virtual workforce—a type of workforce that, quite possibly, will influence the ‘new normal’ of the post-COVID world. Extant IHRM research does offer actionable insight for today, but outstanding knowledge gaps remain. Looking ahead, we offer three domains for future IHRM research: managing under uncertainty, facilitating international and even global work, and redefining organizational performance.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCrises and Disruptions in International Business : How Multinational Enterprises Respond to Crises
EditorsMurad A. Mithani, Rajneesh Narula, Irina Surdu, Alain Verbeke
Number of pages37
Place of PublicationCham
PublisherPalgrave Macmillan
Publication date2022
Pages417-454
Chapter17
ISBN (Print)9783030803827
ISBN (Electronic)9783030803834
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022
SeriesJIBS Special Collections
ISSN2397-8775

Keywords

  • International human resources management (IHRM)
  • COVID-19
  • Virtual workforce
  • New normal
  • Employee wellbeing
  • Flexible work
  • Leadership
  • Global talent management

Cite this