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Social science research is often characterized as involving a dichotomous choice between quantitative and qualitative modes of inquiry. HRM research is no different in this respect. Each approach has particular features that offer distinct benefits to the researcher. Quantitative research draws upon numeric data gathered using structured and validated data collection instruments to test hypotheses about the relationships between variables. Objectivity is prized and the relationships among measures are reported on the basis of statistical significance (Patton, 1996). This allows researchers to test theories and develop generalizable findings that can be applied to other populations. In contrast, qualitative research is more oriented to data collection approaches that provide information about context and allow a deeper understanding of phenomena. Subjectivity is assumed and research is designed to take into account …