Contextualisation of Social Networks and their Impact on HRM: The Indian Scenario

Abstract

Our study attempts to bridge the gap in the management literature with respect to the impact of social networks on HRM systems in the Asian context. We specifically examine the formation and the influence of social ties in the Indian scenario. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, we have developed a conceptual framework which contextualises the fictive kinship ties from the sociocultural as well as the professional perspectives. The sociocultural perspective incorporates intrinsic features such as caste, regionalism, etc. and their extrinsic manifestations through cultural artefacts. The fictive kinship ties from professional perspective include educational and corporate alumni networks. The framework further illustrates the influence of these fictive kinship ties on various HRM processes and decision making within the organisation. The theoretical and practical implications of the framework have been discussed.