The effect of human resource reputation signals on share prices: An event study

Abstract

Using an event study methodology, the authors examine whether human resource reputation announcements in the business press (such as companies being cited as the “best for women”) affect the share prices of these companies. They find partial support for the assertion that favorable HR reputation signals have a positive effect on share prices. One signal, being named as a “best company for working mothers,” was associated with a positive return around the announcement date indicating that this signal affects estimates of the future earnings of the company. Explanations for these findings and implications for research and practice are discussed. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.