Hard HRM
An approach treating employees primarily as a cost to be managed and controlled to meet business objectives.
Real World
Sports Direct was widely criticised for using zero-hours contracts and strict warehouse monitoring targets — a textbook Hard HRM approach that later damaged its employer brand and triggered regulatory scrutiny.
Exam Focus
Contrast Hard HRM's short-term cost savings against long-term costs (high turnover, poor reputation) for strong evaluation chains.
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