Myths and Misunderstandings About Human Resources

Misunderstandings About Human Resources

Every business organization has employees, and no matter how many employees are on staff, every organization benefits from a well-run HR department. Unfortunately, too many leaders and workers do not fully understand what HR does and why it is so valuable to business productivity and profitability. Here are a few of the most common myths about HR that continue to confuse operations everywhere:

HR Only Manages Personnel

The evidence for this myth is in the very name of the department: human resources. HR professionals are tasked with managing the humans within an organization, and to many people, that means HR should and must focus entirely on issues pertaining to personnel management.

When HR departments were new, they might have functioned merely as personnel departments โ€” meaning they were focused on hiring, firing and other fundamental management tasks. However, in the 21st century, HR is so much more than personnel management. Because the workforce is unquestionably an organizationโ€™s most valuable resource, HR has the potential to be highly strategic in its maintenance and engagement of employees.

HR Focuses on Enforcing Existing Processes

A common depiction of HR professionals shows them following existing rules with unwavering diligence. HR representatives do tend to know an organizationโ€™s policies back to front and will enforce the rules when necessary to ensure that everyone is working productively toward mutual goals โ€” but HR is not oblivious to the concept of gray areas.

HR professionals are not mindless robots programmed to uphold current policies and procedures. Rather, most HR workers are highly sensitive to every situation they encounter, looking to understand the details before making any type of ruling. Because the ultimate objective of HR is to ensure that a business is performing well, many HR reps will bend or break existing rules for the sake of productivity and peace.

HR Is Eager to Levy Punishments

Similar to the myth about enforcing processes is the belief that HR exists only to punish misbehaving workers. This concept of HR is prevalent in media โ€” movies and television series set in workplaces that need an unredeemable villain โ€” so many less experienced workers tend to develop this view of HR as a tool for maintaining some kind of corporate police state. Unfortunately, this depiction can cause workers to fear HR, which means those workers fail to take advantage of the support available through HR.

How HR behaves is almost entirely a function of the broader corporate culture. Though some malicious business leaders might compel HR reps to inflict undue punishments on misbehaving employees, the truth is that most HR departments are eager to look for nuance and make judicious recommendations that preserve everyoneโ€™s integrity.

HR Makes Decisions

No department better understands the needs of the workforce than HR โ€” but in most organizations, HR has essentially no power to effect positive change for workers. Instead, HR makes recommendations to other business leaders, who then determine the best course of action.

Fortunately, some organizations are making changes to how HR is allowed to operate, and more HR managers are being invited to contribute to business strategy. HR workers eager to gain more authority might pursue a Masterโ€™s in Human Resources, which will equip them with the knowledge, skills and credentials to rise into the decision-making ranks of their organizations.

HR Is a Substitute for Effective Communication

Communication is easily the most important skill for any professional to develop and maintain โ€” but it is also a skill that is frequently lacking in professionals at all levels of an organization. Unfortunately, instead of building greater communication skills, many professionals opt to funnel their communications through HR. For example, managers might instruct HR to inform employees that their performance is not meeting expectations, or workers might expect HR to manage conflicts with their coworkers.

HR can facilitate effective communication between professionals who continue to struggle to understand one another; many HR professionals are experienced in coaching communication strategies to help workers have more productive conversations with one another. However, HR should not be assuming responsibilities of managers, who need to step up and demonstrate effective communication for their teams.

The role of HR within organizations is shifting as organizations shift how they view their workforce. Hopefully, the workforce can develop a more realistic view of HR, in turn.

— Share —

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply

— Follow Us —

Up Next

How Much Does Poor Sleep Affect Your Mental Health?

Poor Sleep Affect Your Mental Health

The occasional night of not getting much sleep may not affect your mental health too much. You may feel tired and sluggish, but you can generally maintain good spirits. However, that can all change after several nights, weeks, or months of irregular or insufficient sleep. You may be surprised to learn that poor sleep can affect your mental health in some of the following ways: 

Exacerbate Mood Disorders

You may be eager to buy CBD and THC sleep products from leading providers like Joy Organics when you learn that poor sleep may worsen mood disorders. People suffering from chronic sleep deprivation may find that it causes more stress, anxiety, and depression. You may also exper

Up Next

5 Tips for Remaining Independent for as Long As Possible

Remaining Independent

No one wants to lose their freedom and autonomy, and having to rely on others for daily tasks as we get older can be frustrating and demoralizing.

Maintaining independence is a top priority for many seniors who wish to age gracefully in the comfort of their own homes. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to enhance your chances of remaining independent for as long as possible. Here are 5 key tips.

Stay Physically Active

One of the most important factors in preserving your independence is maintaining good physical health and mobility. As we age, it becomes easier to become sedentary, which can lead to muscle weakness, balance issues, and an increased risk of falls – a major threat to independent living.

<

Up Next

How Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Is Changing Depression Therapy

Brain Stimulation

Depression deeply affects millions globally, marking it as a top cause of disability. In response, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) emerges as a groundbreaking approach in mental health care. It shines as a beacon of hope, particularly for those finding little relief in traditional therapies.

Within this innovative field, technologies like Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and brainwave therapy devices are pivotal. They represent key players in this transformative era. By offering new avenues for treatment, NIBS is redefining the battle against depression. It does so with promising, accessible solutions. These technologies herald a new chapter in mental wellness

Up Next

The Healing Power of Words: How Writing Promotes Mental Well-being

Writing Promotes Mental Well-being

Words hold an immense power that extends beyond the mere act of communication. They can uplift, to wound, to heal, and to transform. When it comes to mental well-being, the words one chooses to express themselves can play a pivotal role in their psychological health. The practice of writing, in its many forms, is a potent tool for alleviating emotional distress, managing stress, and enhancing overall mental wellness. This article explores the multifaceted relationship between writing and mental health, shedding light on how the simple act of putting words to paper can be a source of profound healing.

Throughout history, great thinkers and writers have turned to the written word to grapple with their inner turmoil. Today, mental health professionals increasingly recognize the benefits of writing as a therapeutic exercise. Whether through journaling, poetry, or narrative writing, the act of writing can serve as

Up Next

Understanding the Spectrum: 5 Common Myths About Autism Debunked

Myths About Autism Debunked

The field of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) has seen significant development in understanding and awareness over the years, allowing medical professionals to diagnose ASD more accurately and provide more effective treatment options. 

In fact, over the past decade, the combined prevalence of ASD amongst children has increased from 1 in 68 in 2010 to 1 in 36 in 2020. Despite this progress in diagnosis, misconceptions and myths still surround this complex neurological and developmental disorder.ย 

Whether someone in your life is living with ASD, you work in the mental health industry or are enrolled in a psychology course online, it’s important to examine and debunk these myths to foster a deeper understanding of people living with ASD a

Up Next

Are Outpatient Treatments Effective in Drug Rehab Austin Texas Centers

Are Outpatient Treatments Effective in Drug Rehab Austin Texas Centers

Are you a recovering addict? If you are someone who is divided between living your life and getting out of an addiction, then you will need to join a Drug Rehab Austin Texas center. However, if you are not financially fit, then you canโ€™t afford to stop working. Unless you have an inheritance or a wealthy family that can take care of you, you might have to keep working while getting the necessary treatments. This is why many people still prefer to join an outpatient rehab facility. While the inpatient rehab program is effective and easier to adhere to, it is also costly and it might stop you from engaging in your work.

Outpatient Treatment is Effective If Properly Practiced

If you are looking to get the best treatment from a

Up Next

The Current State of Medical Marijuana Legalization in the UK

Medical Marijuana Legalization in the UK

Medical marijuana has been a topic of significant interest and debate not only in the United Kingdom but also around the world. In recent years, as attitudes towards cannabis have evolved, there has been growing momentum to explore its potential medical benefits and consider its legalization for therapeutic purposes. In this article, we will delve into the history, current legal status, the emerging medical marijuana industry, patient experiences, challenges, and the future prospects of medical marijuana in the UK.

Historical Perspective

The journey towards medical marijuana legalization in the UK is marked by a rich historical background. Cannabis has been cultivated and used for various pur