PERFORMANCE OF HUMAN RESOURCES IN NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS-WHAT REALLY COUNTS?

Human resources are seen as an important asset for general associations, particularly for non-profit organizations. In the literature, it is possible to ascertain a set of factors influencing the performance of these resources, in general, in an organizational context. However, given the specificity of their missions, realizing that large management areas in this type of institutions influence their performance would significantly contribute. In practice, it was possible to implement assertive strategies to promote the performance of these employees. Thus, for the present study, and using a quantitative methodology, we started by analysing strategic management, financial management, governance and management of social services promoted by the Holy Houses of Mercy in Portugal. It was possible to ascertain that, among these areas, only financial management does not influence the performance of human resources in this type of institution. Recognizing the importance of the remaining areas, it was possible to present a set of indicators grouped into subdimensions, revealing important contributions to theory and practice. It was possible to conclude that, in a context of significant economic and social instability, such as the one we are currently experiencing, NPOs that seek to improve their level of human resource management should pay special attention to aspects related to strategy, governance and management of the social services they promote, as this is where the key factors for this performance improvement are found.