Recommended Adaptive Approach to Global HRM
One highly effective adaptive approach to global HRM is the polycentric model—where multinational companies adapt their HR practices to fit local cultures and markets, while still aligning with core corporate values. This was clearly demonstrated by Alpha Computers (a pseudonym for an Indian IT multinational), which combined global performance standards with local flexibility in staffing, training, and rewards.
Instead of using a one-size-fits-all model, Alpha adopted a flexible, decentralized, and people-empowered system called the AlphaWay. Employees were treated as leaders and given autonomy through concepts like “Full Life Cycle Business” and “Full Life Cycle Leaders.” Performance metrics were standardized across the company but adjusted based on location, role, and employee input.
My View
I believe this adaptive approach is critical in today’s global landscape because it helps organizations maintain consistency while respecting local values and work cultures. For example, Alpha localized 90% of its workforce in non-English speaking countries like China and trained global and local managers equally under the same leadership philosophy. This balance between global integration and local responsiveness is what makes an MNC successful in diverse regions.