Written By: Dr. Heena Bulchandani | HR Professional & Coach
This article focuses on the knowledge, skills and behavior competencies required to be an effective HR Professional; surfacing the dynamics of working in a global environment. It is suitable for budding HR professionals or professionals desiring to make their career in HR, as it will give them a comprehensive understanding of HR skills needed to succeed in today’s environment.
If Finance is the brain of the organization, HR is the heart. Both are indispensable for the success of an organization. It is needless to say that no organization can work without people. People are the most valuable of all resources who in turn contribute to the achievement of organizational objectives.
The field and work of the human resources professionals is changing rapidly. Today’s HRM professionals face new expectations and challenges in shaping the organization’s human resources function, from being a mere transaction processor to a business partner; contributing towards sustained competitive advantage.
Changing role of HR:
In the last almost two decades, the role of HR has changed tremendously. International level events and local factors, both have contributed to this.
Globalization – increased competition, cultural differences, multi-facet environment.
Demographic shifts – gender, age, economic migration, nuclear families, single-parent.
Entrepreneurial practices – outsourcing, full time vs part time, contracting, right sizing.
Increased employee expectations – security, education, work-life balance, growth opportunities.
The competencies required by HR Professionals:
| Knowledge | Behavior | Skills |
| Knowledge of the BusinessOrganizational KnowledgeKnowledge of International HRMKnowledge of “Best Practices” in HRKnowledge of Labor legislations | Ethical behaviorPersonal CredibilityFairness | Effective communication skillsLeadership & Management skillsChange management skillsTechnological skillsFinancial skillsDecision Making & Influencing SkillsVendor ManagementProject Management |
Today’s HR professionals need to perform multiple roles in an organization. They need to be a strategic business partner; contribute and add value to the organization. Perform the role of a coach and consultant by coaching and offering advice to other department heads; in addition, to service delivery role. HR professionals should be able to professionally relate with employees at all levels – be it strategic, operational or shop-floor employees.
Code of Ethics for HR Professionals
- Maintain the highest standards of professional and personal conduct.
- Encourage employers to make fair and equitable treatment of all employees a primary concern.
- Maintain loyalty to employers and pursue company objectives in ways consistent with the public interest.
- Uphold all laws and regulations relating to employer activities.
- Maintain the confidentiality of privileged information.
Why Aren’t “Best HR Practices” Used More Often?
- Resistance to change
- Ignorance on the part of decision makers
- Satisfied with the status-quo
How Can You Gain Support for “Best HR Practices?”
- Link the use of HR practices to the solution of real business problems, and to achieving tangible business goals.
- Demonstrate how the benefits outweigh the costs of using “best HR practices.”
- Speak the language of business people.
(The views presented in the article are based on the best practices and vast experience of the writer).
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