This is an interesting quote; one that many people use frequently to refer to HR practitioners. It is often used when individuals do not agree with a decision or policy we enforce. An HR Professional must gain respect from employees by standing its’ grounds, by showing confidence in the knowledge and skills we posses. However, we must keep in mind that this alone does not give us the upper hand – we must also become activists. We must be in touch with our environment, organization, weaknesses, strengths, opportunities and threats. We must be prepared to offer a factual opinion, take a position and challenge assumptions intelligently with unshakable confidence. How can this be accomplished?
The main approach consists of several concepts that can be the source of the much needed respect an HR Professional desires. These philosophies to become an active participant in the organization are:
- Become curious of your surroundings
- Fall in love with what you do
- Motivate yourself to learn exactly what can make or break your passion
- Recognize the fact that people usually resent those who enforce rules and policies.
Being an active participant in the organization that you work for can be of great help when developing a stern image. Understanding the organization goes beyond a general perception of the industry. It refers to the understanding of the predominant mind-set of the organization. This includes:
- Recognizing organization’s goals and objectives
- Being able to adapt and fit your HR style to the organizational mission and vision
- Learning the most effective way to implement, introduce and enforce policies
- Developing the ability to identify major issues an organization, as well as individuals, are experiencing
- Appreciating the fact that people usually resent those who enforce rules and policies because this can generate an opportunity to shine
These along with familiarizing yourself with the different types of personalities and how individuals interact with each other, can greatly influence this step.
Curiosity is said to have killed the cat but in this case, HR can be the exception. Lack of curiosity in this field can mean detachment. This in turn can become the death bed of an HR Practitioner. Becoming curious is essential to our success. The more we know about what’s going on around us, the better we are able to provide valuable assistance. Being in touch with the happenings in an organization can increase the leadership team’s confidence in HR. This can be done by demonstrating an understanding of the root of the problem and strategically developing a solution.
When you enjoy what you do and are passionate about it, you can achieve whatever it is you want. There can be bumps in the road, but true passion can be the stick that supports you when getting back up. The presence of enjoyment and appreciation alone can be the needed motivation to become of a success story. You need to get to know the forces that may weaken your passion and learn how to overcome it. An important fact is not to allow outside influences deviate you from your purpose. Stay focused and be confident on what it is you want.
HR is regarded as “HR with an attitude”. But, this does not necessarily have to be a negative concept. You may find that when you are involved and active in the organization’s daily activities, when you enjoy the nature of what you do and are open to embrace all that comes with it including people’s resistance to rules and policies, by nature you will be perceived as an individual with an attitude. But it is up to the HR individual to simultaneously be respected, followed and listened to by those same individuals.