The opportunity to lead the Human Resource (HR) function all by yourself brings both challenge and excitement. However, it’s still possible to thrive and succeed with the right tools, planning, and resource utilization. Being a solo HR professional enables you to get things done your way and empowers you to make a difference. With time you will become more resilient, wise, and skilled at managing multiple HR functions simultaneously.
7 Strategies to Win as a Single-Person HR Department:
Below are 7 strategies you can apply to succeed as an HR department of one:
1. Identify Your Priorities
Human Resources has several administrative and strategic demands that may overwhelm you if you don’t plan. Identify and prioritize HR functions that are most critical and need your immediate attention. Understand what the organization expects from you and align yourself towards key goals and deliverables.
2. Automate Processes
Digitalize and automate time taking and repetitive HR processes. It will help you maximize efficiency and focus on critical HR matters. Utilize HR software and digital tools to automate administrative tasks such as payroll, attendance tracking, and personnel record keeping.
3. Outsource Functions
Consider outsourcing certain HR functions such as recruitment, payroll processing, and benefits administration to external service providers. Coordinate and provide the required data and the experts will do the rest. It will allow you to manage your time and priorities effectively.
4. Use Technology for HR Requests
Employees reach out to HR several times a day for forms, requests, questions, and clarity on policies. As a single HR personnel, it will consume much of your productive time. Instead, empower your employees and provide them with an online portal or intranet for recurring HR queries. Enable employees to access HR forms, edit personal information, and read policies.
5. Establish Communication Channels
You must maintain transparent and continuous communication with the employees. It’s vital for HR to stay connected and within reach. As an HR department of one, do so creatively to avoid fatigue and burnout. For example, hourly HR query sessions, weekly group chats with different departments, monthly HR open houses, etc.
6. Relationships and Networking
Build a strong repo with key leaders, managers, and employees across the organization. Extend your network to stay informed about employee insights. People share their concerns when they feel comfortable and connected. Ensure that despite being a solo HR representative, you are approachable.
7. Take Care of Employee Well-being
Include employee well-being in your list of priorities. Implement policies and initiatives that support employee engagement, mental health, well-being, and work and life balance. Foster a culture that promotes open communication, transparency, periodic feedback, manager support, and a sense of belonging.
Final Thoughts
Being an HR department of one is both overwhelming and exciting. One must define their priorities to stay focused. It’s advisable to utilize technology to automate, and external vendors to outsource certain HR functions. Moreover, effective use of communication channels is a must to maintain positive employee relationships and build networks. Lastly, prioritize employee well-being as part of your core HR responsibilities.
How can métier help you?
Do you want to digitalize your HR processes to save time and cost?
We at métier have a range of Digital HR Solutions that will digitally transform HR processes at your company.
Reach out to hr@metierme.net for a consultation today.