Case: How Can HR Managers Help? Learnings from the Lockdown due to COVID-19 (No. IIMR-C14-05/2020)

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to disseminate the key initiatives taken by HR managers which have helped in the smooth functioning of the organizations during the Lockdown due to COVID-19

Design/methodology/approach Twelve Qualitative interviews were taken from Indian HR professionals working in different organizations to explore the innovative HR practices during COVID-19

Findings HR professionals utilized and promoted the virtual platforms on a larger scale for essential organizational functions such as (a) work from home, (b) learning and development, (c) employee engagement, (d) talent management, (e) performance appraisal and (f) stakeholder management. These initiatives proved to be substantially helpful in running and maintaining the critical functions of the organizations.

Originality/value This article attempts to explore the practical, innovative practices at the time of crisis, which supports the smooth functioning of the organizations.

Practical Implications Dissemination of these innovative practices will be quite useful for the managers of other organizations. Managers can verify the fit of these practices and apply them in their respective organizations.

Keywords: COVID-19, employee engagement, learning, and development, virtual platforms