INVESTIGATING HRM PRACTICES AS DRIVERS OF INNOVATION PERFORMANCE DURING COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted organizations worldwide, creating a complex and challenging environment for managers and Human Resource Management (HRM) practitioners. These professionals were compelled to devise innovative solutions to ensure business continuity while helping employees cope with the unprecedented crisis. Despite its significance, studies investigating the impact of this crisis on HRM remain limited. This paper presents a general literature review aimed at expanding the scope of management research by exploring the influence of COVID-19 on HRM practices. It identifies the key challenges and opportunities emerging from the pandemic and offers valuable insights for managers and HRM professionals regarding future organizational strategies. In the context of Pakistan, HRM played a crucial role in promoting innovative practices during the pandemic. Human resources facilitated the implementation of effective management ideologies aligned with organizational objectives. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the factors affecting HRM systems during the pandemic. Data were collected from a sample of 420 employees working in selected banks across Pakistan through a structured questionnaire. Primary data were gathered from both managers and workers. For analysis, SPSS v26 and Smart PLS 3.3.7 were employed. Innovations in work arrangements, such as remote work, have positively influenced employee attitudes and behaviors. The study also highlights improvements in performance appraisal and management, training and development, as well as pay and reward systems.