The CIPD has produced research reports and guides focusing on different aspects of people management and HR for SMEs. Take a look to help develop your thinking on these different areas.
Maximising impact as an HR professional in an SME
This report reflects on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by HR in SMEs and offers case study examples and practical guidance on tackling core HR issues.
Organisational culture
Keeping culture, purpose and values at the heart of your SME
This report highlights the key role of culture to business success and provides practical ideas, hints and tips for smaller businesses about how to retain what you're all about over time. It draws on the practical experience of 16 case study organisations and consultants who work with SMEs.
Entrepreneurial spirit driving growth
Entrepreneurs offer their viewpoints and experiences in this report, which explores the practices that help entrepreneurial organisations to flourish.
Resourcing and talent management
Recruiting and developing people for SME growth
This report looks at how 13 case study organisations have addressed some of the main recruitment and talent management challenges and opportunities. The case studies include: Arolite, CC Young & Co, Choccywoccydoodah, DUO, EducationCity, IMarEST (The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology), Julia’s House, MJF Cleaning, Naked Wines, Probrand, Secret Escapes, UKFast and Watford Community Housing Trust.
Valuing your talent: Life begins at 80
This report looks at the challenges of human capital management in SMEs as they grow, from the perspective of an SME that reached the tipping point of 80 employees.
Employing young people: A guide for SMEs
This tool helps SMEs explore how and where young employees can help address current and future business challenges. The practical tool, produced with Apprenticemakers, includes cut out and keep information sheets, checklists and action plans.
CIPD Trust
Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.
Bullying
and harassment
Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.
A thought leadership and podcast series exploring how responsible business and leadership have changed since the pandemic
We discuss how leading through crisis has shaped the way we address new challenges
Workplace support for survivors of domestic abuse is more likely to be in place where female leaders are in decision-making positions
Lessons on integrating sustainability into your organisation’s purpose
This report explores employees’ experiences of menstruation and menstrual health at work and details how employers can develop a supportive culture
Read our latest Labour Market Outlook report for analysis on employers’ recruitment, redundancy and pay intentions this autumn
A report seeking common ground in skills policy across the UK’s four nations