HR managers need to be able to juggle huge amounts of data and information to do their jobs thoroughly and successfully. Thankfully, these days most data is digitized meaning that processes are much smoother and easier to manage – wondering what to look for in HR software? Click the link.
However, despite advances in HR software and technology, HR managers still need a range of fundamental skills to thrive in the corporate world and complete all their daily responsibilities proficiently.
Here we’ll discover the most important skills that all HR managers should have.
Communication skills
Communication is key. And any HR manager would agree. HR managers communicate with employees, managers, legal officials, and other important business representatives in several ways. Whether they’re on the phone, communicating via email, formal letter, or speaking publicly to the latest intake of employees, all HR managers should not only be able to communicate clearly but also in a wide range of scenarios.
You’ll also be dealing with interviews at various stages, answering questions from employees and high levels of management, dealing with issues (some work-related, others not), and all whilst being able to communicate vital and important points clearly.
Compassion
While not specifically a skill, compassion is a trait that all HR managers and representatives should possess. In HR, you’re often the first point of contact for those who are struggling within the workplace.
Whether their issues are directly related to work, such as poor performance, bullying or employee conflict, or they have other issues that are impacting their daily lives such as problems at home, or monetary concerns. Providing a listening ear and somewhere that employees can turn to without judgment is essential in creating a positive, happy workforce. Being compassionate is crucial to this role.
Decision making
In HR, your entire working day revolves around making decisions. From deciding whether or not an employee is right for the role, deciding what step the business should take next whilst two of its employees are struggling to resolve a conflict, or how to limit the damage control associated with downsizing the business and making employees redundant. Being able to make decisions and not shying away from difficult choices is essential.
Organizational skills
Payroll, employee development plans, employee data and information, recruitment, interviews, training, appraisals, handling grievances, constructive dismissal cases, and more. Being able to handle events and cases like these on an individual basis requires extraordinary organizational skills. Mountains of paperwork and digital files need to be coordinated efficiently and correctly, as well as juggling standard administrative tasks and other issues at the same time.
Final thoughts…
HR is an impressive and wholly demanding field of work. However, it’s also incredibly rewarding, if you think you possess any of the above skills, then it could be the perfect career for you.