Human Resource Practice - 9th Edition by Helen Bessant & Brian Dive

About the Book

Use this book to gain a thorough grounding in the key aspects of human resource management and develop the practical skills needed for a successful career in HR.

Book Synopsis

The essential introduction to HR practice for CIPD Foundation learners and early-career professionals.

How can new HR practitioners build the knowledge and confidence to make an immediate impact at work? Human Resource Practice by Helen Bessant and Fiona Whiting offers a clear, practical foundation for students taking the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice, undergraduate HR modules and those starting their first role in the profession.

Written in an accessible, jargon-free style, the textbook covers the organizational context and legal background before exploring all core HR functions, including recruitment and selection, performance management, reward, learning and development, job analysis and design, employee relations and managing change. This updated edition features new material on HR analytics, organizational culture, and the latest HR technologies, as well as expanded coverage of ethical practice, inclusion and wellbeing as part of the core behaviours expected of people professionals.

Structured learning features include:
- Reflective activities to encourage critical thinking
- Real-world examples linking theory to workplace practice
- 'Explore further' boxes to prompt deeper research
- Updated case content on culture, technology, and analytics
- Online instructor's manual and lecture slides for structured teaching

Whether studying for the CIPD Foundation Certificate or beginning a career in HR, this textbook provides the essential knowledge, practical tools and professional behaviours needed to succeed.

Review Quotes

"Human Resource Practice is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the world of HRM. It covers all the key areas including employment law, performance management and learning and development, while also addressing contemporary themes such as people analytics. An invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand or advance in the human resource field."-- "Dr Graham Perkins, Associate Professor in Human Resource Management, University of Exeter"

"

HR Resource Practice and People Management is insightful and engaging, capturing the heart of the HR profession and its crucial influence in today's world.
At a time when organisations are navigating swift change, shifting workforce needs and heightened social expectations, this book offers a clear framework, thoughtful guidance and practical tools to help HR practitioners approach their responsibilities with both confidence and strategic vision.
With a balance of scholarly depth and workplace relevance, the text integrates real-life examples, reflective exercises and practical strategies that inspire professionals to strengthen organisational performance while upholding fairness, inclusivity and employee wellbeing. More than a guide, it serves as a compelling reminder of HR's role in shaping ethical leadership, building organisational resilience and securing long-term success. For anyone determined to make a meaningful difference through the management and development of people, this is an essential read.

"-- "Denise Lightfoot, Chief Learning Officer, Crosby Management Training"

"An accessible text which provides clarity to the work of HR professionals. Ideal for those starting out in the profession or wanting to broaden their HR remit. Real work examples and reflective activities ensures it is grounded in reality with useful links for further exploration."-- "Dr Maggie Inman, CIPD Assessor and HR consultant"

"If you want to be more confident about managing people or progress in a career or studies in HR, this comprehensive guide on Human Resource Practice is the perfect starting-point and ongoing companion. Written by experienced professionals and aligned to CIPD qualifications, this book is a trusted resource that I will be recommending to our students. From key topics to the latest research, it covers everything you need to know in an easy and clear format. Ideal for CIPD students and anyone navigating the world of Human Resources."-- "Nona Davies, CIPD Course Leader, Heart of Worcestershire College"

"This book provides an excellent introduction to human resource practice for practitioners and students of people practice. Real life examples and reflective activities bring topics to life, creating an interesting and engaging read."-- "Nicky Small FCIPD, CIPD Lecturer, Solihull College and University Centre"

About the Author

Helen Bessant MA HRM, PGCE, Chartered FCIPD, is an assessor and Chief Moderator of the CIPD professional qualification. She has held a variety of HR and managerial roles in retail and IT organisations and was the CIPD programme leader at an FE College. Based in Worcester, UK, she is also the founder and director of Helen Bessant Consulting Ltd.

Fiona Whiting is a freelance HR and organisational development consultant with over 20 years' experience as an HR practitioner. She has held a number of executive board-level positions and has worked predominantly with the NHS, local authorities and academic institutions as well as in a variety of private sector organisations. Based in Brighton, UK, she is also the co-founder and director of The People Effect List.