The Benefits of Discourse Analysis for Human Resource Management

The objective of this article is to take a closer look at discourse analysis as a qualitative method of data collection, analysis and theory building in Human Resource Management. Working exclusively with audio or video recordings of authentic conversations and following a systematic methodological process, discourse analysis enables researchers to develop theoretical conclusions and models on HR topics. First, basic assumptions and tools of discourse analysis are presented. Special emphasis is put on the applied discourse analytical approach and potential benefits for research on Human Resource Management. Second, drawing on a research project carried out at the University of Bayreuth, an example is presented of how discourse analysis was used to investigate experience management. The project yielded a theoretical model that describes the communicative processes of experience transfer among expatriate managers. It reveals the particular challenges involved as well as strategies interactants use to cope with them. Being strictly action-oriented, the model is advantageous for deducing recommendations for Human Resource Development.