Final answer:
Firms using human resource practices to develop complex resources can gain a competitive advantage. Human resources professionalization can reduce hiring bias and enhance workforce capabilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the research in strategic human resources management, firms that are able to use human resource practices to develop socially complex human and organizational resources are able to gain competitive advantage over firms that do not engage in these practices. This advantage is achieved through the development of a workforce that is better educated, more skilled, and able to contribute more effectively to the productive capacity of the firm. Professionalizing human resources functions can also help reduce discrimination in the hiring process, contribute to employee development, and promote a diversification of skills through training and education.