The book is an essentials volume that extracts key concepts in the management of people in a global context and presents them in a concise volume. In doing so it seeks to balance the various perspectives on the topic while reflecting the most current research available. Extensive references will allow readers wishing to explore concepts in more depth an avenue to do so.

Each chapter begins with an introductory vignette (short case) that exemplifies the core issues to be discussed in the chapter. The vignette is referred to later in the chapter as the topic is developed. This approach is designed to make the reader immediately aware of how the knowledge can be applied. This device is in addition to end-of-chapter cases, which are used to reinforce concepts presented. Each chapter closes with a set of discussion questions designed to reinforce and/or apply key points in the chapter.