What's the secret to building a strong partnership with your HR business partner?

1 Understand their role and goals

Your HRBP is not just a generalist who handles administrative tasks. They are a strategic partner who aligns the HR policies and programs with the business objectives and needs. They also have to balance the interests of various stakeholders, such as senior leaders, managers, employees, and external parties. To work effectively with your HRBP, you need to understand their role and goals, and how they relate to your own. Ask them about their priorities, challenges, and expectations, and share yours as well. Find out how they measure their success and how you can support them.

2 Communicate regularly and openly

Communication is key to any partnership, and especially to one that involves sensitive and complex employee relations issues. You and your HRBP should communicate regularly and openly, and establish clear channels and protocols for sharing information. You should also keep each other updated on any changes, developments, or concerns that may affect your work or the employees. Be respectful, honest, and constructive in your communication, and avoid making assumptions or judgments. Listen to their feedback and perspectives, and acknowledge their contributions and expertise.

3 Collaborate and coordinate

Your HRBP is not only your partner, but also your collaborator and coordinator. You and your HRBP should work together on employee relations initiatives, projects, and cases, and leverage each other's skills and resources. You should also coordinate your actions and decisions, and ensure that they are consistent and aligned with the HR and business strategies. Seek their input and advice, and offer yours as well. Respect their authority and autonomy, and trust their judgment. Recognize their value and impact, and celebrate your achievements together.

4 Learn and grow

Your HRBP is not only your partner, but also your mentor and peer. You and your HRBP should learn from each other and grow together as professionals. You should also seek opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills, and share best practices and insights. You should also challenge each other to improve and innovate, and provide constructive feedback and support. Respect their experience and expertise, and appreciate their diversity and uniqueness. Recognize their potential and aspirations, and encourage their development.

5 Build trust and rapport

Your HRBP is not only your partner, but also your friend and confidant. You and your HRBP should build trust and rapport , and develop a personal and professional bond. You should also show genuine interest and care for each other, and respect each other's opinions and feelings. You should also have fun and enjoy working together, and create a positive and supportive atmosphere. Respect their personality and style, and appreciate their humor and charm. Recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and accept their flaws and mistakes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?