How to Gain Credibility as an HR Professional by Leading by Example

Following on from previous articles it is clear to me that HR Business Partners and Directors and particularly Chief People Officers need to gain credibility by leading by example as well as leading on business and commercial topics. Throughout my career the best HR Business Partners and Execs have moved into HR from business areas and not purely developed their careers in the HR function. This is because they have gained business experience and led teams etc. which is a great grounding for an HR professional.

In Human Resources (HR), credibility is the cornerstone of building trust and influence within an organization. As an HR professional, you're often the first point of contact for employees, and your actions directly impact company culture, employee satisfaction, and business success. One of the most powerful ways to build credibility is by leading by example. This article will explore why leading by example is crucial for HR professionals and provide actionable tips to help you do so effectively.

Why Leading by Example Matters in HR

HR professionals are expected to uphold and enforce the company’s values, policies, and ethics. Leading by example means living those values daily, not just advocating for them. When employees and leadership see you practicing what you preach, it builds trust and enhances your reputation as a credible, authentic leader.

Here are a few reasons why leading by example is particularly impactful for HR professionals and make sure your own function and teams feel the same about you:

• You Set the Cultural Tone: HR is at the heart of shaping organizational culture. If you model the behavior you want to see in others, such as integrity, transparency, and respect, you are setting a powerful precedent.
• You Build Trust: People are more likely to follow someone they trust. Demonstrating fairness, consistency, and empathy in your decision-making processes encourages employees to believe in your leadership.
• You Become a Role Model: Whether dealing with conflict resolution or personal conduct, employees look to HR for guidance. By embodying professionalism and ethical behavior, you position yourself as a role model.
• You Enhance Leadership Influence: When senior leaders see that you lead with integrity and consistency, they are more likely to view you as a trusted advisor, increasing your influence at the executive level.
• You Showcase Effective Leadership Through Your Own Team: HR is often responsible for hiring, developing, and managing talent across the organization. The way you manage your own HR team and their development speaks volumes about your leadership abilities. When employees observe that you lead a high-performing, engaged, and motivated HR team, it builds your credibility in talent management across the company.

6 Ways to Lead by Example and Gain Credibility

1. Demonstrate Fairness and Integrity
2. Show Empathy and Active Listening
3. Maintain Confidentiality
4. Model Work-Life Balance and Wellness
5. Be Open to Feedback and Continuous Improvement
6. Demonstrate Strong Talent Management by Developing Your Own Team

Conclusion

Leading by example is not just about doing your job well—it’s about aligning your actions with your words. As an HR professional, every interaction and decision shapes how employees and leaders perceive you. By demonstrating fairness, empathy, confidentiality, work-life balance, openness to feedback, and by managing your HR team effectively, you will not only enhance your credibility but also foster a positive, trust-based culture within your organization. Have a good look at your function and be honest with yourself. Is this an example of excellence or is their history and issues that need to be improved upon.

Remember, the more you lead by example, the more others will follow in your footsteps, contributing to a more engaged, motivated, and harmonious workplace.

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