5 Critical Reasons Why Managers Require HR Skills
Human resources training makes sense for those working in a HR department, but what about training for non-HR staff? Of course, human resources departments are instrumental in assisting managers with human resource issues and tasks.
But what about small to medium-sized businesses? Businesses with less staff and limited resources often lack a human resource department, and managers need to wear ‘many hats.’ And, those managers with access to a human resources department, do they consult with human resources on every issue? It’s unlikely.
These managers (and businesses) are at risk of putting themselves in a dangerous position when it comes to performing human resources tasks, such as hiring, firing and managing staff performance.
It makes sense that human resources training for those not specifically in human resources, particularly managers or supervisors, protects and ensures the smooth operation of businesses.
What is Human Resources (HR)?
Human resources is the process of managing employees in a business and involves hiring, firing, training, and inspiring employees.
A human resources department is responsible for recruiting and training employees and managing employee-benefit programs.
Human Resources Training. Can Managers Manage Without it?
Career Coach and Former Human Resources Specialist, Kaylyn Taylor, says it’s vital that all managers receive leadership education and human resources training.
If managers lack these crucial skills, the consequences are many, explained Ms Taylor, including a high turnover of employees, costly recruitment, poor productivity, absenteeism and a negative impact on employee mental health.
So, let’s take a look at the top five reasons why managers and businesses should invest in professional development training in human resources.
- Helps Protect the Company Brand
When it comes to hiring and firing, training is human resources training is important because it’s not just the employees’ rights that need to be considered but also the reputation of the company brand.
“It can be difficult to give ‘soft rejections’ to those who aren’t successful in the recruitment process or those who need to be let go. Managers must be able to protect the company brand in sensitive situations.”
- Creates More Effective Recruitment and Increases Employee Loyalty
Interviewing skills are not just for the person being interviewed. It’s equally important for managers – the interviewer – to have recruitment and interviewing skills.
“They need to know what questions to ask, how behavioural-based questions work, and they need to ditch the power trip and make sure every single person feels good about the brand.”
- Reduces Turnover Rates and Employee Sick Days
A high turnover of employees and absenteeism are two consequences of inadequate leadership and HR training.
“When I worked in corporate recruitment, part of my job was reporting directly to the owner of the business and undertaking a culture assessment.
“There were a few cases where staff retention was the key problem, and when this is happening a lot, it almost always means a poor manager is running the show.
“That’s why I always encourage manager feedback forms and leadership training for anyone in a position where they are managing others,” said Ms Taylor.
- Evokes a More Productive and Happier Workplace (Increasing Overall Revenue)
When managers develop essential leadership skills and HR training, employees feel happier and become more productive in the workplace.
“It’s proven that happier workplaces result in higher productivity, which results in higher revenue. That means managers need to be able to create a positive and nourishing workplace that inspires people to work effectively.”
- Helps Managers Achieve Higher Levels of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to be conscious of, control, and express your emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships sensibly and with empathy.
Having a high emotional intelligence is essential for personal and business success and is particularly important for those in leadership or management positions.
“There are natural-born leaders with high levels of compassion and emotional intelligence, but they’re few and far between.
“Many managers need training in these areas to increase employee loyalty, retention and workforce productivity.”
If you’re a manager and want to develop skills in leadership, human resources and recruitment, you can discover many helpful, professional development courses at Australian Online Courses. Simply visit us online or contact one of our friendly Learning Consultants on 1300 762 221.
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