Predictions are that sustainability becomes the next big topic for Human Resource Management after internationalization and globalization. This book gives new answers to these questions: - How can HRM contribute to attracting, developing and retaining highly qualified human resources over time? - How can a paradox perspective contribute to understanding and coping with paradoxical tensions? - How can sustainability be used as a ‘deliberate strategy’ for HRM? Human Resource Management (HRM) could very well be the key contributor to organization profitability and competitive advantage in the 21st century. That claim is a startling reality with a growing body of supporting evidence that affirms its truth. In a world where less than 15% of all employees acknowledge that they are positively engaged at work, the opportunity to capture and inspire the minds and hearts of tomorrow’s work force is immense. Thus, there are multiple reasons for this book about the strategic contribution of HRM in the third millennium economy. The bad news is that the history of HRM has been disappointing, Human Resource Professionals (HRPs) have been largely unprepared, and organization leaders have been focused on technology and innovation – rather than the people who create value for their companies. The good news is that there is a growing number of outstanding companies and enlightened leaders who have recognized that people are the key to better customer service, greater innovation, improved productivity, and higher profits.This book serves four significantly different types of readers. First, and most importantly, this book offers insights for top management teams who are served by the HRPs and provides a template to hold those professionals accountable. Each of the chapters of this book provides strategic insights into the purpose and function of HRM systems in supporting the top management team and its organization mission. Second, this book provides clear guidelines for HRPs in helping them to realize their key roles and the accountability expected from them. Third, this book is a useful foundation for students seeking to understand how HRM systems function. Fourth, the book provides scholars and academics with fundamental principles upon which to build as they explore the practical world of business.