Elevating the 'H' in HR: Recognising the Human Aspect of People Management

It's no secret that the term 'HR' doesn't sit well with me. As soon as I had the opportunity to define my own role, I chose to rebrand everything as 'People'. I became the Chief People Officer, and my team transformed into the People Team. However, old habits die hard, and 'HR' remains entrenched in many organisations. It's how we're often referred to as a function and a profession by others.?

But perhaps it isn’t so much the title 'HR' that bothers me; it's the disproportionate focus on the 'R' – the 'Resource'. In this equation, 'Human' becomes a descriptor for the 'Resource' rather than the central essence.?

Don't get me wrong, I recognise the vital role human resources play in organisations. But constraining our perspective solely to the 'resource' aspect limits our potential. This one-dimensional approach has resulted in an excessive emphasis and oversimplification of our capabilities, often reduced to efficiency, process, policy, and systems. It has also led to an under-appreciation of the dedication, and behind-the-scenes work of almost every 'HR' professional I know. They are the ones who navigate the intricacies of human interactions, emotions, and the social and psychological complexities that come with managing our incredible people.?

‘HR’, especially the 'H', constitutes a skillset that every leader and participant within an organisation should possess. The true mastery lies in quietly and often invisibly guiding others, with an expertise that is the cornerstone of our HR functions.?

Let's move beyond the narrow confines of a traditional 'HR' mindset and embrace a holistic approach that acknowledges the humanity within every workplace.?

Let’s elevate the ‘H’ – the Human, Heart, Head and Hand.?

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