Write an essay in which you address following topic ‘There is no argument whatsoever in favour of current models of “best practice” in HRM. Human resource specialists should act on the basis that every policy choice in HRM is contingent on the specific strategy and competitive context of the firm. Universalism in HRM is dead.’ Critically examine the evidence to support this claim. Your essay must: show evidence of wide-ranging research; present robust arguments; flow smoothly in terms of the points you make; be written in a clear fashion; and adhere to ECU referencing guidelines. Take note that an essay is more than a mere summary of material or a reiteration of what you have read. An essay must demonstrate qualities such as synthesis, critical perspective and persuasiveness. Learning outcomes: • apply Strategic HRM theory and concepts to a range of problems in authentic contexts. • critically evaluate research into the link between HRM and organisational performance. • apply knowledge of Strategic HRM to design a human resource strategy for an organisation. • develop a persuasive business case for HR strategy implementation. Graduate attributes: • ability to communicate • ability to generate ideas • critical appraisal skills Preparation Before starting this assignment, you should have conducted background reading relevant to the unit and to the essay topic and, as a minimum, completed the required reading for each week. You should also carefully study essay writing requirements and ECU referencing guidelines (obtainable from the ECU Library website). Assignment instructions For this assignment you are required to: 1. Carefully consider the essay topics. 2. Selectively read scholarly journal articles and gather the information you will need for your essay. 3. Develop an essay plan. 4. Write the first draft. 5. Check and redraft the essay several times. Length: Maximum of six (6) A4 pages of text, double-spaced, 11 point Times New Roman font, excluding References and the Cover Page with author details. Just six pages of the essay will be marked. There must be no headings within the essay. Margins: 2.5cm (1”) on every side. Resources Your essay must be based on primarily journal articles from reputable databases and scholarly strategic HRM textbooks. You must avoid using general HRM textbooks. Information from freely available webpages is not always reputable and will not be accepted as source documents. Your essay must be based on a minimum of 15 academic sources. Ensure the sources you use are high quality and referenced correctly. Text books Armstrong, M. (2016). Armstrong’s handbook of strategic human resource management. (6th ed.). London: Kogan Page. Boxall, P., & Purcell, J. (2016). Strategy and human resource management (4th ed.). Hampshire, UK: Palgrave Macmillan.