Human Resource Development Strategies and Their Influence on Employee Engagement and Retention

Abstract Book of the 7th International Conference on Research in Human Resource Management

Year: 2025

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Human Resource Development Strategies and Their Influence on Employee Engagement and Retention

Dominque Baker

ABSTRACT:

As companies are under significant pressure to attract and retain top talent, human resource development (HRD), as a means to increase engagement and commitment, is a valuable asset. Even after considerable investments into learning and development, many organizations still struggle to design learning and development strategies that work for employees. This current study looks at how employees experience HRD in their workplaces and how they contextualize those experiences in terms of a connection to, engagement with, and decision to remain in the organization.
To accomplish this study, a qualitative case study design was employed with individuals from various sectors and industries who had experienced HRD strategies across a variety of modalities within the last two years. Data was collected through interviews, workplace visits, and document reviews. The design of the study also draws on a framework of Human Capital Theory, Social Exchange Theory, Self Determination Theory, and Job Embeddedness Theory to consider how HRD efforts are viewed and internalized.
The uniqueness of this study is based on employee voice; specifically, how the employees speak to the value, inclusiveness, and personal relevance of development opportunities. Early findings suggest the importance of HRD strategies that are at the same time skill-based and emotionally and culturally responsive. Employees are more likely to remain engaged and committed to an organization when they feel seen, supported, and that an organization has invested in them. Further the current work provides antagonistic guidance to HR leaders for the purpose of designing development programs that are thoughtful, intentional, and aligned with what people need.

Keywords: Human Resource Development, Employee Engagement, Retention, Qualitative Research, Workplace Inclusion, Organizational Trust, Career Development, Employee Voice, Job Embeddedness