The Role of Human Resource Management Practices in Fostering Workplace Culture

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices specifically training, rewards, and communication on the development of workplace culture within Nigerian organizations spanning banking, telecommunications, and manufacturing sectors. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire adapted from validated HRM instruments and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS structural equation modeling (SEM). The study evaluated both measurement and structural models to assess the reliability, validity and causal relationships among the constructs. The results revealed that all three HRM practices had a significant and positive impact on two key cultural outcomes which are collaboration and creation. Among them, communication emerged as the most influential factor indicating its critical role in enhancing team alignment and innovation. Training was found to directly contribute to enhanced competencies and teamwork, while rewards were shown to be a strong motivator for performance and creative engagement. These findings are supported by motivational theories such as Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory and Vroom’s Expectancy Theory.The study affirms that strategic HRM implementation fosters a high performance workplace culture and recommends a focus on tailored training programs, transparent reward systems and robust communication mechanisms. The research not only contributes to HRM literature by validating a model linking HR practices to cultural outcomes but also highlights how these practices can be leveraged to drive innovation and collaboration in the Nigerian work context. The study concludes that a people focused HRM strategy is essential for sustainable organizational success and competitiveness in emerging markets.