The impact of training and development on social sustainability in multinational corporations

Abstract

As society’s demands on businesses grow, more multinational corporations are providing their employees with training and development to contribute to social sustainability. These programs support employee learning, motivate staff and encourage them to work together, creating a more lasting and competitive group. Even though training and development are important, there is not much research on how it helps multinational corporations focus on social sustainability. The qualitative study examines how training and development programs help multi-national corporations achieve social sustainability, guided by the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity model and Human Capital Theory. Data was gathered by conducting semi-structured interviews with 11 employees from four MNCs in Finland: Wärtsilä, Danfoss, ISS Palvelut Oy, and ABB. The results point out six important themes that describe how training and development programs help employees become more aware, motivated, and able to participate in socially sustainable activities. Participants showed an increased feeling of im-portance, belonging and responsibility at their workplace after training. It was found that using what was learned and having strong leadership support were key to maintaining these outcomes.The study contributes to the area of sustainable human resource management by linking employee advancement with social responsibilities. It provides useful suggestions for HR and business leaders to ensure learning initiatives are in harmony with fair and inclusive workplace values.