Demystifying HR: Unveiling the True Power of HR

Myth #1: HR only Handles Administrative Tasks.  Reality: HR’s role goes far beyond administrative tasks. From talent acquisition to colleague development, performance management, colleague relations, policy development, and strategic planning. HR plays a crucial role in supporting organisational objectives. 

Myth #2: HR is responsible for solving all colleague conflicts and issues.  Reality: Whilst HR does play a role in resolving conflicts, they are not solely responsible for addressing every issue. Managers and colleagues share the responsibility of open communication and collaboration in addressing and resolving conflicts. 

Myth #3: HR is a cost centre and doesn’t contribute to the company’s bottom line.  Reality: HR activities have a significant impact on the organisation's success. Effective HR practices, such as talent acquisition, retention, and development. These all can enhance productivity, reduce turnover costs, and contribute to the company’s overall profitability. 

Myth #4: HR’s primary role is to serve as employee’s advocate.  Reality: While HR does support team members, their primary responsibility is to protect the interests of the whole organisation. HR strives to maintain a delegate balance between colleague satisfaction and business goals. 

Myth #5: HR decisions and solely based on policies and procedures.  Reality: While policies and procedures guide HR practices, HR professionals also consider a variety of other factors. Some of these factors include: individual circumstances, legal requirements, resourcing strategy, organisational culture, and strategic objectives when making decisions and providing advice. Their aim is to find solutions that align with the overall goals of the organisation, always taking a holistic approach. 

Now that we have dispelled 5 myths surrounding HR, let’s move onto debunking some common myths related to typical HR practices. 

Myth #1: Performance management is solely an annual review process.  Reality: Performance management is an ongoing process that involves regular communication, goal setting, feedback, coaching, and development throughout the year. It should not be limited to a once-a-year formal review. Continuous performance management drives better results and fosters growth throughout the year. 

Myth #2: Performance management is primarily about identifying and addressing poor performance.  Reality: Whilst poor performance is part of the process, effective performance management also focuses on reorganising and rewarding high performance. This is done through identifying strengths and promoting colleague growth and potential. It is a holistic approach that nurtures talent and drives overall organisational success. 

Myth #1: Absence management is a reactive process.  Reality: While addressing absences is often reactive, effective absence management also involves proactive measures. This includes promoting team well-being, creating a supportive work culture, offering work-life balance initiatives, and providing resources for preventative care, (this could be a gym membership discount). Prioritising preventative care supports a healthier and more engaged teams within your organisation. 

Myth #2: Presenteeism is a positive sign of dedication.  Reality: Presenteeism, where colleagues come to work even when they are unwell, can negatively impact productivity, team dynamics, and spread illness. Encouraging the team to take time off when genuinely sick promotes a healthier work environment and reduces the spread of illness. Rest and recovery are crucial for well-being and productivity. 

Myth #3: Flexible work arrangements increase absenteeism.  Reality: Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours, and actually reduce absenteeism. By allowing colleagues to better manage personal commitments and work in a way that suits their needs, flexibility improves job satisfaction and colleague engagement. Successful implementation of flexible work arrangements leads to a happier, more productive team. 

We hope that throughout this human resource blog we have provided you with valuable insights into dispelling common myths surrounding HR and its practices. If you would have any questions or would like more information into how HR Download can aid in creating your own vibrant profitable workplace, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for HR consulting Manchester.