Human resources practices influencing the knowledge transfer within the multinational corporations : mediating effect of social capital

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to support the inadequate empirical studies existing in the related literature –the ways human resources practices facilitating knowledge transfers by developing social capital within multinational corporations. Method: Relevant data is collected through seven in-depth interviews with executives of a multinational corporation from Norway. Qualitative analysis has been used at data analysis stage. Findings: Findings indicate that training and internal communication as human resources management practices has an influence on knowledge transfers. Also, cognitive social capital among employees exists. The main finding of this study is meetings as a component of internal communication helps improving personal relationships among employees thus facilitates KTs within the company by developing social capital which extends the related literature. Key Words: Knowledge Transfer, Human Resources Practices, Social Capital, Qualitative Research Design, Norway