What makes HR successful in an organization? How do we create successful relationships and outcomes for the contribution we make for our organizations? I’ve been thinking a lot about this and believe it all boils down to two factors.
Our success comes when we are both RESPECTED and LIKED by all levels in the organizations we serve.
"What does this mean?"
Here is how I define what it means to be respected and liked – by everyone from our team members to our management team to our executive team peers, to our CEO, to our Board Members and our Investors:
1) Respected comes from being:
- Credible - From Latin crēdibilis (“worthy of belief”). This includes not being afraid to admit when you don’t know the answer.
- Competent – knowing your stuff and staying current with the ever-changing employment landscape.
- Courageous vs fearful - Saying what needs to be said, when others can’t or won’t, with a focus on improving a situation vs self-protection.
- Focused on the company's success – We are a service function and should be adding value to every aspect of the organization.
- Proactive – catch what needs to be done before someone else; ward off bad outcomes.
- Someone who takes ownership, solves problems, and drives for results/outcomes.
2) “Liked HR” is the result of:
- Talking to people, rather than titles.
- Adding levity/fun to stressful situations – finding ways for those around us to relieve stress rather than subjecting them to “stuffy” HR.
- Being friendly and approachable – to all levels in the organization.
- Adding energy to those around you.
- Using “we” vs “you” language – we’re in this with you!
I would love to hear your thoughts on your own successful HR relationships, and your success factors!
