Final answer:
Human resources provide an organization with a sustainable competitive advantage because they encompass characteristics of being valuable, rare, not easy to imitate, and having no good substitutes. Investment in human capital and professionalizing HR functions can further optimize this advantage. Therefore, all the answers listed are correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human resources provide an organization with a sustainable competitive advantage because they are valuable, rare, cannot be imitated, and have no good substitutes. All of these characteristics are essential for creating a competitive advantage that is sustainable over the long term. They help create a unique environment that cannot be replicated easily by competitors.
Investing in human capital by providing access to opportunities, training, and professional development can lead to a higher standard of living and productivity. Similarly, businesses must make thoughtful investments in their employees, encompassing hiring practices, technology, and professional development, to harness the full potential of their workforce.
Furthermore, professionalizing HR functions can help reduce bias in recruitment, leading to a more diverse and high-performing team that is an asset to the company. Therefore, all the options listed in the question contribute to the competitive advantage of an organization through its human resources.