How evidence based HR has gained HR a seat at the C-suite table by demonstrating as value driver not a cost driver

Up until recently HR was not taken seriously as most executives in the business viewed as cost driver which did not create any value therefore it did not deserve a seat at the C-suite table. Fast forward to the 21st Century evidence based HR has given HR an opportunity to have a ringside view of what is going on in the organisation. According to Rob Briner, ''Evidence-based practice is nothing new or complicated or mind-blowing. It isn’t a disruptive paradigm-shifting solution to every problem. It doesn’t involve convoluted equations, and you don’t need a team of brainiacs. It won’t push your thinking way outside the box with awesome concepts. It will do something much more exciting, interesting, and important than all of these put together: It will help you to make better decisions." While we have a lot of talk about HR analytics the two concepts are very different. While HR analytics is focused on collecting and applying talent data and evidence based HR involves and evidence based HR involves integrating the best available evidence with clinical knowledge and expertise.

The first element of evidence HR which has gained HR a seat on the C-suite is that its allows the business to make data driven decisions. This approach allows for the business to realise its outcomes as we are using evidence which is relevant to the business strategy.

Secondly HR has gained a seat at the C suite through evidence based HR as it, as it opens doors to new processes and people strategies. The introduction of new strategies helps the business in achieving its bottom line. This also helps HR professionals to demonstrate connection between HR practices and business KPI's.

Evidence based HR also helps in performance improvement which is why HR should have a seat on the C-suite. A study that was carried out shows that when HR is included in strategic planning organisations have a lower turnover rate and employees have a higher engagement rate.