As I try to analyze the HR career in general and look at the trajectory of many successful HR professionals I can’t help but think about the differences between a thriving HR Professional and an unproductive one. In general, there are many factors that can influence and drive the success of an HR Professional or anyone in anything they do, for that matter.
One factor that stands out as I write this is the popular “balance” of events. My observation is that in order to be successful you must find a balance in everything you do. From balancing your home life and work to, in our case, balancing the needs of the employees and the needs of the organization.
Finding this balance often makes our HR duties stressful and challenging. But, the ability to meet both the needs of the organization and the needs of individual employees (so employees will continue to perform their duties effectively) while dealing with the day to day challenges is what allows the successful HR professional to be regarded as part of the strategic / executive team.
Part of finding this balance means getting the “big picture;” In essence this means to clearly understand the organizational company goals and learning how the HR function can help achieve those goals efficiently and effectively in spite of the decisions that we must make from time to time. These can be sometimes very stringent decisions such as firing, laying off, and handling a sexual harassment claim. Is everyone ready to take on the responsibility of being accountable for these decisions?
If you were to ask me before I had to become the accountable individual, I would have said “no-way”. But once you commit to being part of the HR team and you begin experiencing the ups and downs, you realize that it is not always about firing or handling a discrimination charge; it is about effectively handling employee relations issues and management concerns before it even gets to that point. This is what will help you balance your activities and succeed in what you do.
So, are you effectively being proactive and utilizing what I refer to the HR “preventive upkeep” solution; or are you simply waiting for the problems to arise, to handle them on a purely reactionary level? If you are exercising proactiveness then kudos to you and keep it up. If you are not and your desire is to become successful, then start by identifying your own goals, think about how they fit in your organization and seek the advice of your peers as well as other successful HR Professionals. Learn how to balance your needs, the needs of the organization and the needs of the employee. Begin to set yourself apart from the rest.
One good way to differentiate yourself is to associate with other professionals in your field that are already part of or are in the process of becoming a key player in a strategic team. Become active in your local SHRM chapter, network with experienced individuals and make a difference in your life and that of others.