An Exploratory Study on Entry Level HRM Job Opportunities and Their Requirements in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to explore the types, categories and requirements of entry levelHRM job opportunities available in Sri Lanka. In order to achieve the objectives, an exploratorystudy on all the HRM related employment advertisements appeared in the Sunday Observernewspaper for the period of 3 years (2006, 2007 and 2008) was conducted by usingcomprehensive and systematic content analysis along with descriptive statistics. The resultsrevealed that a few number of entry level options are available in Sri Lanka. These options canbe grouped into two broad classifications such as generalized and specialized way of entryoptions. Sri Lankan organizations have a practice of recruiting young people as ManagementTrainee (MT) to fill the current or future job vacancies. In connection with entry-level HRMjobs, MT has been identified as one of the main sources of entry options in Sri Lanka. Based onthe needed educational qualifications, the MT option is classified into eight categories. In case ofMT, a placement process and conditions were identified. From entry level job seekers,organizations expect twenty nine skills and eight types of personal qualities. The implications ofthese findings are useful to all stakeholders of HRM especially current and potential job seekers,organizations and HRM workforce developers in Sri Lanka.

Key Words: Entry Level HRM Job Opportunities, Entry Level HRM Job Requirements andExploratory Study