An overview of green HRM practices among SMEs in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) has emerged as the driving force for businesses in the 21st century, as it is practiced by many progressive organizations globally. GHRM is considered as a source that is capable of gaining sustainable competitive advantage. For SMEs, it will not only provide impetus to growth but also a path towards sustainability. The current study intends to identify the most relevant aspects of GHRM, considered important by SMEs. Moreover, the study also intends to examine what should be the focal area among SMEs from the perspective of GHRM. The study is significant due to the fact that most SMEs lacks formal and full-fledged HRM department/activities due to financial and size constraints. The current study is grounded on the methodology of a multi-criteria decision-making approach, as without a scientific background and analogy, a sound decision making is not feasible. The current study utilises the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), a multi-criteria decision making tool to support the objectives of the study. The data for the study was collected from the human resource managers/owners of facility management companies, based in Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. Based on the results derived from analysis, the study establish the analogy that facility management SMEs in Saudi Arabia are least concerned about the “Green HR Acquisition” but moderately concerned about “Green HR orientation, Training and development”, and are highly concerned about “Retaining highly competent employees in green HR practices”. The implication of the study will be useful for mangers/owner of SMEs, and academicians.