NOTES
Self-Instructional
Material 33
Human Resource Policy
A policy is a predetermined course of action established to guide the
performance of work towards accepted objectives. It is a type of a standing
plan that serves to guide subordinates in the execution of their tasks.
Simply issuing a written statement of HR policy does not automatically make
it policy. For the policy to be issued is one phase; when it is accepted,
understood and used as a guide to decisions in actions that is another phase.
A policy is a formal statement on corporate thinking, which serves as a
guideline for action. It is meant to establish consistency in the application of
the policies over a period of time so that each one in the organization gets a
fair deal.
4.5 KEY WORDS
Decision-Making: In the wider process of problem-solving, decision-
making involves choosing between possible solutions to a
problem. Decisions can be made through either an intuitive or
reasoned process, or a combination of the two.
Labour Laws: These laws mediate the relationship between workers,
employing entities, trade unions and the government. Collective labour law
relates to the tripartite relationship between employee, employer and union.
Individual labour law is concerned with employees’ rights at work.
4.6 SELF ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS AND
EXERCISES
Short-Answer Questions
1. State the different factors that influence the HR policy of an organization?
2. What are the advantages of HR policies?
Long-Answer Questions
1. Discuss the essential characteristics of a sound HR policy.
2. Explain the principles of HR policies.
4.7 FURTHER READINGS
Aquinas, P. G. 2005.Human Resources Management: Principles and Practice.
New Delhi: Vikas Publishing House Pvt Ltd.
Decenco, David A. and Stephen P. Robbins. 1989.Personnel/HRM, 3rd Edition.
New Delhi: Prentice-Hall of India.
