A study on manager`s perspective on the operational level employees` talent in apparel industry Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study investigates managers’ perspective on the operational level employees’ talent in apparel in this dynamic sector, where operational roles form the backbone of production and service industry, Sri Lanka. Talent acquisition is crucial for sustaining competitive advantage delivery. The research employs qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with HR professionals from key apparel firms, to explore their strategies, challenges, and perceptions regarding recruiting and retaining operational-level talent. Findings reveal that while managers prioritize technical skills and adaptability in candidates, they also emphasize cultural fit and potential for growth within their organizations. Moreover, the study uncovers significant challenges such as high turnover rates and the impact of socio-economic factors on recruitment efforts. Ultimately, this research contributes valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of talent acquisition and retaining talent employees in the Sri Lankan apparel industry, offering implications for both theory and practice in human resource management. The study was aimed to analyze the Apparel Industry in Sri Lanka using a qualitative perspective, focusing on operational and managerial insights. The research conducts using inductive approach, using interview method with cross-sectional primary data to provide measurable outcomes and contribute to understanding industry dynamics. The study uses interpretivism, to identify talent in Sri Lanka's apparel industry through interviews with HR professionals. The snowball sampling method is used to gather explorative data from medium scale apparel factories in the Western Province. The findings enhance HR practices, benefit both employees and professionals, and contribute to improving productivity. The collected qualitative data analyze using a qualitative platform, following a synthetic approach. The thematic analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of HR perspectives and insights, which inform HR practices. The findings were used to develop effective HR strategies and improve employee productivity.