Strategic human resource management addresses the need to create vertical linkages of human resource management (HRM)
attributes with corporate strategy as well as horizontal linkages that integrate practices among HRM functions. Most models
commonly focus on either vertical or horizontal linkages. This paper utilizes three categories of person–environment fit to create
both vertical and horizontal linkages. Based on a strategic contingency framework, it demonstrates how person–environment fit
relates to organizational competencies that supports corporate strategy. Furthermore, it demonstrates how person–environment fit
can be used to promote internal alignment of HRM practices. Implications of this approach to strategic human resource
management are then discussed.