HRM in Entrepreneurial Firms: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

Abstract

This review aims at acknowledging and assessing the literature on the introduction, adoption, and value of human resource management (HRM) in entrepreneurial firms, hereby advancing knowledge at the cross borders of the fields of entrepreneurship and HRM. Such a review is relevant and timely as entrepreneurial firms have a central role in the economy and are important for technological advancement and employment. Furthermore, managing entrepreneurial firms differs significantly from managing established firms. Using a systematic review method, we develop a framework of HRM in entrepreneurial firms, presenting the current state of the literature, involving both HRM practices and systems, and accounting for determinants, outcomes, and the organizational context. Importantly, we offer a compelling research agenda for future work on the determinants and outcomes of HRM in entrepreneurial firms, alongside theoretical and methodological considerations.