What is HR and why do I need it?

Some managers and/or staff may ask what exactly is HR and why do I need it in my organization?  First, consider HR as Human Relationships.  Regardless of whether you are a solopreneur or have 1000’s of employees, you will most likely be dealing with other humans at some point.  And where there are people, there can be questions and conflict.

Anyone working with human relationships should strive to clarify expectations.  Often, business conflict stems from misunderstandings and/or miscommunications within an organization.  HR should focus on eliminating these divergent prospects.

One of the reasons I encourage job descriptions is that they require employers to really think about what they need to have done.  It’s easy to just want people to take care of our problems/work needs, but what if they think the issue is something else? Putting thought and effort into what we need helps make it clear what our expectations are.  Clear descriptors can limit requiring employees to read our minds as to what needs to be done!

Another vital part of HR is in clarifying and standardizing processes. As businesses grow and evolve, processes will change, but there should be someone who understands the purpose to ensure efficiencies, satisfy legal requirements, and provide standardization where appropriate.  Being uniform in how things are done can help minimize risk, enhance productivity, and encourage equal treatment in various areas.

For those who do not have staff, it’s just as important (and maybe even more vital) to clarify expectations with clients.  Knowing your product and/or service is great, but are you clear in discussions with clients as to what you’ll be delivering, when and how?  Just because you don’t have any direct reports doesn’t mean you have no dealings with other humans, requiring an understanding of relationships.

So, unless your business never interacts with people, you need HR in the form of human relationships. Bringing in an individual who understands HR can minimize frustration and risk, enhance productivity, and encourage supportive relationships.

#positivity #managementsolutions #hrconsultant #relationships

Team of humans working together in a meeting.