Strategic personnel management, commitment and psychological contracts: the Vale case

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate the features of psychological contracts, in connection with the strategic management of people in four Vale units with organizational structures that are far removed from major urban centers. It is a qualitative and exploratory study analyzed at the organizational level, based on a single case study. A field survey involving directors, managers, HR professionals, supervisors and coordinators was implemented to collect data, through interviews and observations, in the operating areas of the company's units in Paragominas, Itabira, Serra dos Carajás and Canaã dos Carajás. Data were analyzed using content analysis and, secondarily, through document analysis. Results show that the organizational structure of these units helps to maintain a cooperative and interpersonal psychological contract, aimed at developing solidarity and underpinned by values that foster the creation of organizational identity and tending to bring people together under all circumstances.