Human resources (HR) professionals are essential leaders within organizations, responsible for shaping culture and driving effective hiring and employee management practices. Northwest Missouri State University (Northwest) recognizes the significance of HR professionals and offers an online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Resource Management program.
This program equips students with a comprehensive set of management skills, providing them with a strong foundation to excel as HR leaders. With a focus on cross-functional collaboration and specialized HR knowledge, graduates are prepared to contribute to vital projects both within the HR department and across business functions.
HR Serves a Primary Leadership Function in Today’s Organizations
HR plays a crucial role in organizational leadership by aligning people strategies with business goals and ensuring the effective management of an organization’s most valuable asset: talent.
HR leaders mediate, bridging gaps between upper management and employees while advocating for worker interests. They guide the organization through change, foster awareness and offer coaching to enhance collaboration between employees and help individuals work effectively within the company structure. To ensure continued progress toward larger organizational goals, they develop metrics to monitor specific implemented changes, track results and advocate for necessary improvements.
Major Responsibilities of HR Professionals
While the specific details may vary depending on the organization, HR generally fulfills the following key responsibilities:
Strategic planning and company culture brand-building: HR professionals work closely with organizational leaders to develop and execute HR strategies that align with the company’s vision, mission and objectives. They ensure that the company presents itself as an attractive employer for top talent and that human capital needs are addressed to support the overall business strategy. According to Forbes, 86% of workers look at company reviews and ratings before applying for a position.
Talent acquisition and management: HR leads the recruitment and selection process to attract top talent. They develop hiring strategies, implement effective selection processes and onboard new employees. HR also plays a vital role in talent management, including engagement, performance management, career development and succession planning. Helping to develop career paths for top talent is essential, as Forbes reports that 44% of organizations do not provide compelling career paths, which leads 75% of employees to pursue opportunities with other employers.
Employee and workforce relations: HR promotes positive work relationships, resolving conflicts and addressing employee concerns. HR leaders develop and implement policies and procedures to maintain a healthy work environment and promote that to attract new talent.
Compensation and benefits: HR professionals design and administer compensation and benefits programs to attract, motivate and retain employees. They conduct market research, evaluate job roles and ensure fair and competitive compensation packages.
Training and development: HR identifies the training needs of employees and designs or sources appropriate development programs. They promote learning initiatives to enhance employee skills, knowledge and overall performance. Onboarding has become an increasingly important component of employee development: companies that excel in this area keep 58% of their employees for at least three years.
Compliance and risk management: HR ensures compliance with labor laws, regulations and company policies. They maintain employee records, handle legal matters and mitigate risks associated with employment practices.
What Natural and Learned Skills Are Necessary to Be Effective as an HR Leader?
Highly sought after by leading organizations, graduates with these qualities have combined innate talents with proven training:
- Empathy: An effective HR leader possesses the innate ability to understand and relate to the emotions and experiences of employees, thereby creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. They demonstrate compassion and consider the impact of decisions on individuals, fostering trust and employee well-being.
- Accountability: A successful HR leader takes responsibility for their actions and decisions, recognizing their influence on organizational outcomes. They hold themselves and others accountable, ensuring transparency and ethical practices in the workplace.
- Critical thinking: A good HR leader employs logical and analytical thinking to assess complex situations, identify underlying issues and devise strategic solutions. They make informed decisions based on objective analysis, considering the long-term implications and aligning them with the organization’s goals.
- Coaching: A skilled HR leader guides and mentors managers and employees, providing constructive feedback and empowering them to reach their full potential. They foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development, enhancing individual and organizational performance.
- Listening: A strong HR leader actively listens to the concerns and perspectives of employees, valuing their input and fostering open communication. They create a safe space for dialogue, enabling effective problem-solving and building healthy relationships based on trust and understanding.
- Collaborating: A successful HR leader understands the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving organizational goals. They actively engage with various stakeholders, encourage cross-functional cooperation and facilitate effective collaboration. This leverages diverse perspectives and expertise for optimal outcomes.
Do you have the innate capabilities necessary to become a human resources leader and the passion and drive to make a difference for your employers and employees? If so, the Northwest online B.S. in Human Resource Management program offers a combination of business management and HR leadership preparation courses that can lead you to a rewarding future.
Learn more about Northwest’s online B.S. in Human Resource Management program.
