Empirical relationships between support to informal learning, professional competences and human performance in a Brazilian public organisation

Abstract

Abstract:The 'competency-based' approach to human resource management has become integral during the last 30 years. Competency encompassing the knowledge, skills, abilities, traits and behaviours that allow an individual to perform a task within a specific function or job. The present study aims to test empirically the relationship between support informal learning, importance and domain of professional competences and human performance at work. The study analysed survey data from 234 employees across a Brazilian public organisation in Brazilian context. The finds revealed that the support provided by managers has had strong effect to employee performance. The contribution made by this paper is of value to both the academic subject domain and managers in human resources. We have confirmed that these different constructs impact differently on employee performance. HR managers should invest in promoting an organisational environment to support learning, generating engagement and commitment to work.