In today’s job market, with new ways of working, shifting expectations and talent shortages in multiple sectors, it’s more important than ever that businesses utilise efficient HR systems. In this article, we’ll explain what HR is, why you need a robust HR system in place and the many benefits to your business of doing so.
What is HR?
HR stands for Human Resources, and it is concerned with managing a business’s most valuable assets – its employees. HR covers a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, right from identifying and interviewing potential recruits to your business through to payroll, exit interviews and handling workplace disputes.
In a small business, one or two individuals may carry out all the HR tasks and responsibilities, whereas in a large company, there will typically be an HR team and each member will have their own specialist role and responsibilities, for example, HR recruiter, HR advisor or payroll administrator. Regardless of size, without proper HR systems in place, any business is at risk of being unable to operate efficiently, safely or within the law.
Getting the Right Staff
Having the right employees is key to your business running smoothly and successfully. HR helps you achieve this by finding potential candidates, ensuring that they have the essential skills and experience required before obtaining references and running pre-employment checks to ensure they’re the right fit for both the role and the company.
HR can also help you identify the ongoing training and development needs of your staff and assist you in making any accommodations necessary for your employees to work to their full potential, for example, supporting employees with disabilities by making modifications to the working environment.
Managing Disputes
Whether a dispute is between two employees or an employer and employee, HR is there to be an unbiased source of support and information for all involved. This ensures that employees are dealt with fairly and legally and that your business continues to run smoothly throughout by resolving issues quickly and efficiently.
With robust HR systems in place, minor issues can be identified before they snowball into larger problems. For example, staff can use a HR system to log any issues, ensuring lines of communication are always open and day-to-day processes aren’t disrupted.
Improved Organisation
It can be hard to juggle administrative tasks whilst staying on top of managerial duties. HR can offer a helping hand and ensure these are completed on time and to the highest standard, without taking precious time and energy away from other aspects of your business. Having the proper HR systems in place and automating processes where possible improves time management and reduces the risk of errors, which can further eat into your time when they need to be rectified.
HR systems improve the efficiency of your business and ensure that both your employees and your business are protected and productive.