Recruitment Model Rediscovered in Thirukkural: Its Relevance in Modern HRM

Abstract

The study attempts to describe the historical background of recruitment and selection process in ancient Tamilian India. It discusses essential skills managers need in their emergent role as a recruiter.The study starts with understanding recruitment and selection as HR role of a manager.It analyses Thirukkural's theory of recruitment with the help of translation of the verses of chater 51 and 52in Thirukkural. Modern management theories by Gary Dessler, Gareth Roberts are also discussed . Big Five theory is also looked at from Thirukkural point of view. Relevance of verses of Thirukkural is established by seeing their reflection in modern HRM literature.This may prove useful in developing more sophisticated model of recruitment eradicating all flaws being practiced by today's managers. For example commonly used technique of western recruiters-Testing in a real life situation is not suitable according to Kundkundacharya.Such studies may help stopping modern Indian recruiters from following recruitment techniques of western employers blindly. Research Questions 1. Does Thirukkural explain the process of recruitment and selection with a special emphasis on Dos and Don " t " s in the process? 2. Are these Do " s and Dont " s relevant for today " s HR managers and recruiters?