HR Ink

Human Resources is often misunderstood and underappreciated. Before I was in HR, I was in the insurance industry and looking back, I can say with certainty that I had no concept of what HR did or was responsible for. I often forgot about the department and only remembered them when I thought my paycheque was incorrect (I am sure they loved me).

Being on the other side now, I have been able to see the common misconceptions many people have regarding Human Resources. Here are several misconceptions that I have learned during my time in the field:

1. HR is for the Business Only

There is a belief that HR exists solely to protect the company’s interests. While we do ensure that the organization is compliant with laws and regulations, we also do our part to advocate for employees. HR understands that the people make the business, which is why the ‘h’ in HR stands for human. We work hard to ensure there is a good work environment and that all employees are treated well.

However, at the end of the day, we can only provide recommendations to the executives within the organization. The final say is always left with Managers, CEO’s, and other leaders. We do not always agree with the business decisions being made, but like you, we too have a job to do.

2. “I am a People Person”

A common phrase I often hear from those within HR or who are looking to enter the field is that they are a people person, and this leads them to believe this is the right career path. Let me tell you, as someone who also used part of this for their reasoning to join the field, it cannot be your main reason for joining HR.

While being a people person will assist you in this career by building rapport with employees, it cannot be your only motivator. There are so many aspects of HR that require more skills for you to be successful within this career. You will be called upon to investigate, problem solve, think strategically, and make business decisions that may not always be received well (ex. terminating an employee). Therefore, make sure you are in HR for more than just a love for people.

3. Administration, Administration, Administration

Human Resources has become much more advanced as a career and we no longer just handle the admin processes of the business. Do not get me wrong, HR is still heavily responsible for much of this, but we also are heavily involved in the strategic decision making for organizations. We look at how companies should alter their benefit plans, manage compensation decisions, and have a strong hand in acquisitions and mergers.

HR has become a strategic business partner for organizations and the field will only continue to grow with more responsibilities as A.I. improves and with analytics becoming a primary focus for many HR departments. We own the facts and stats of the organization, and this allows us to be so much more than “paper pushers”.

4. HR is the “fun police”

I completely understand where this statement comes from as I am sure to some we do appear to be against fun, however, if you notice much of what HR does police has to do with professionalism. We ensure people are treated fairly and respectfully to ensure a safe work environment for all.

Therefore, I would qualify us more as “professional police,” because that is all we are really doing. For those that view HR as the “fun police,” maybe you should consider your actions and whether they are appropriate for the workplace as we do try to inject fun in the workplace through company events and perks, such as a Wellness Fund.

These misconceptions regarding Human Resources have been around for years. It is time they are debunked, and HR receives the recognition they deserve as an essential strategic partner for any organization.