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The Benefits of Human Resource Certification: A Critical Analysis and Multi-Level Framework for Research

Author

Listed:
  • Mark L. Lengnick-Hall

    (University of Texas at San Antonio)

  • Herman Aguinis

    (University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center)

Abstract

Despite the huge success of marketing certification to human resources (HR) professionals, does it benefit individuals, employers, and the field of HR? We know very little about whether certification has an impact on any important individual- and organizational-level outcomes. This article provides a brief history of HR certification and its purported benefits. Then we review the literature on perceptions of HR certification, including a survey we conducted with about 190 HR professionals. Finally, we present a multi-level model of hypothesized HR certification effects. In this conceptual framework, which unifies both micro and macro levels of analyses (i.e., individual, unit, organization, and profession), we derive 13 testable propositions to guide future research on the benefits of HR certification.

Suggested Citation

  • Mark L. Lengnick-Hall & Herman Aguinis, 2008. "The Benefits of Human Resource Certification: A Critical Analysis and Multi-Level Framework for Research," Working Papers 0052, College of Business, University of Texas at San Antonio.
  • Handle: RePEc:tsa:wpaper:0097mgt
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. Allan P. O. Williams, 2006. "Mission and Vision," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: The Rise of Cass Business School, chapter 8, pages 112-116, Palgrave Macmillan.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    HR certification; Multi-Level Framework for Research;

    JEL classification:

    • M12 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Personnel Management; Executives; Executive Compensation

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