Your Summer HR Strategy: Keeping Momentum (article)

Your Summer HR Strategy: Keeping Momentum (article)

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Closing out 2015 has been a more challenging task for HR professionals in the U.S. than in past years. In addition to the usual open enrollment, compliance audits, benefit plan discrimination testings and everything else, we had to tackle ACA. It was not an easy feat, but we fought through it and are probably finding ourselves catching our breath. Now what?

Find some time for yourself, but don’t lose momentum! Your HR career is not a lot of little sprints forced by deadlines but rather a marathon that requires pacing. This summer, find the moments to recharge and then keep running.

Often, HR gets so bogged down with paperwork and checklists that we don’t make time for strategy. Summer is the season to make that time. To start, think about some core strategic initiatives important to every business and assess your organization’s status in each. A few things to consider include:

Do you have a successful training program in place? Think not only about HR courses like anti-harassment, ethics and HIPAA but also about manager-in-training programs, career development, conflict resolution and team building.

When was the last time your employee handbook was reviewed? The laws have changed; your handbook may have not. While you may have seemingly more important things to do, do not let this task slip through the cracks.

Is there an up-to-date succession plan in place? Your organization has a responsibility to protect its employees’ livelihoods and ensure the business stays sound during any transitions. Without a succession plan, your business could be in jeopardy.

Are your ready for next year’s ACA filing and all the in between? Refine your approach to manage eligibility and don’t allow yourself to get behind.

Is HR providing value to your business? Self-reflection is critical for growth and improvement. Ask yourself these questions to see what else you could do specific to your organization’s success:

  • Is HR truly serving your organization to the best of its abilities?
  • What struggles did you face and what deadlines were missed?
  • What did you do well that made a significant difference for your organization that could be enhanced even more?
  • What new ideas have you developed or approaches have you changed?
  • What did your managers and leaders struggle with most last year and how can you assist them in achieving their goals?
  • What are your HR goals for the year?

Also, take time to look at your personal development. Are you taking ownership of self-growth? It’s easy to wait for guidance and instructions. Don’t! Do a self-review and develop goals for your summer. Here are some things to consider:

Get certified. Do you have your HRCI or SHRM certification? Prepare yourself now; make a commitment and schedule time to study.

Need a book for vacation? Understanding the business, the people and leadership is critical for success. Often this can be acquired through experience, but learning and improvement can be significantly enhanced when coupled with books. Ask for recommendations or check out some classics; just get reading!

How have you been handling stress? Maybe it’s time to find your outlet be it working out, meditation or a hobby. Take some time to explore what works for you.

By taking the time to work on some strategic initiatives and developing yourself, you will be further proving the ROI for the entire HR function and improving your career as a strategic thinker and valuable business contributor.

Your Summer HR Strategy: Keeping Momentum (article)2016-06-23T17:54:00-05:00