HR is usually the first port of call for complaints around the business but what if the complaint is about HR itself? Let’s take a look at the top five complaints and how to overcome them.
1: HR does not understand the business
Having a basic understanding of each business department will go a long way in better understanding how to assist an individual.
- Embed business knowledge into the HR learning curriculum.
- Keep abreast of the wider business goals and strategies.
- Spend time with employees in each department to understand work routines and functions.
2: HR serves management, not employees
Even if a business aligns HR with upper management objectives, it is important not to forget that the primary function of HR is to serve its employees.
- It’s impossible to support upper management by first understanding their employees. Paying attention to what’s happening on the ground will enable management to identify issues as well as star employees.
- Guide managers towards long-term stability by developing a business case for integrity.
3: HR speak their own language
The average employee does not understand HR jargon and acronyms, so it’s important to communicate in simple terms.
- Would a young student be able to understand what you are saying? If not, you need to simplify your message.
- Break information down into steps or bite-size chunks.
- Stop using jargon completely.
4: HR is all talk and no action
Being bound by confidentiality, sometimes it’s impossible to take action or give specific advice.
- Share all the information you can and if it’s not possible to share, explain the reasons why.
- Keep people informed at all stages, even if it is to say that nothing has progressed. Keeping silent is worse than giving restricted information.
- Understand that most people’s issues are time sensitive. Ensure the necessary action is taken within individuals time restraints.
5: HR is more concerned with processes than outcomes
Don’t fall into the trap of following a process just because it exists. A process should always move toward a desired outcome.
- Regularly review and amend processes to keep up with changes within the business.
- Streamline them as much as possible to cut red tape and unnecessary roadblocks.
- Test new processes before rolling them out to determine efficiency.
By overcoming these complaints, HR can become a department that all employees feel comfortable and confident approaching, no matter what the issue is.
