Purpose
This study aims to conduct an extensive bibliometric analysis of research across COVID-19 and human resource management (HRM). It captures an exhaustive conceptual understanding of theoretical foundations, research trends, developments and research directions in the HRM domain.

Design/methodology/approach
A set of 505 HRM and COVID-19-specific articles collected from the Scopus database were systematically analyzed using a two-tier method. In the first tier of analysis, the evolution and current state of research are identified using citation analysis. In the second tier, network analysis and content analysis of research clusters and thematic mapping are done to identify the prominent research themes and research gaps and suggest future research directions.

Findings
The study highlights the emergence of six research clusters: SHRM and competitive advantage, employer branding and employee engagement, crisis management and resilience, challenges, career shock and job demand resources and burnout. The thematic mapping categorizes the themes into four categories: motor, basic, emerging or declining, and niche research themes published on COVID-19 and HRM. To understand the socio-cultural dynamics and cross-cultural issues during human resource management, the findings emphasized the need for the increased contribution of researchers and practitioners, especially from the developing and emerging nation’s context. Increased co-authorship among influential authors and institutions will also help formulate strategies and policies to effectively deal with similar pandemics.

Originality/value
Unlike the previous literature review, the present findings provide meaningful insights for formulating people management techniques, policies, and practices in response to COVID-19 or similar pandemics.