Why Are So Many HR Professionals Being Laid Off? It's Time To Learn To "Fall In Love With The Problem."
Apr 15, 2023
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HR professionals are facing layoffs, prompting a need to rethink their roles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of 'Falling In Love With The Problem,' urging a shift from simply providing solutions to addressing deeper organizational challenges. It delves into onboarding complexities and their relation to turnover, supported by a case study from a major bank. The podcast encourages HR to adopt a consultative approach, focusing on impactful solutions that truly address systemic issues in the workplace.
HR professionals must adopt a consultative approach by 'Falling In Love With The Problem' to provide relevant, impactful solutions.
Understanding the interconnectedness of various HR functions is crucial for aligning solutions with business objectives and enhancing organizational success.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Problems in HR
Understanding the core problems that Human Resources (HR) aims to address is crucial for transforming the profession into a strategic partner for businesses. Many HR professionals fall into the trap of relying on established solutions without analyzing the specific issues at hand, like the example of onboarding programs. It's essential to assess whether onboarding should address challenges like productivity, retention, or performance, as different problems require tailored solutions. By fully grasping the underlying issues that organizations face, HR can provide more impactful and relevant contributions.
Case Studies Highlighting Systemic Problem Solving
The discussion illustrates systemic problem solving through case studies, notably that of Bank of America. The bank identified that high turnover, which was assumed to be an onboarding issue, was actually related to various factors including recruiting, training, and career progression. In analyzing their performance metrics, the team realized that addressing turnover required a broader strategic approach that considered how employees were hired, trained, and engaged throughout their tenure. The bank's effective strategy incorporated cohort-based hiring and continuous upskilling, ultimately leading to improved business outcomes.
Redefining HR Roles and Prioritizing Solutions
For HR to evolve and remain relevant, it must shift its focus from merely delivering programs to being a proactive problem-solving entity. This shift involves cultivating a consultative mindset among HR professionals to prioritize the significant challenges that impact company performance. Emphasizing the alignment of HR solutions with business objectives, such as defining success beyond just program adoption, is vital for gaining leadership's trust and support. By developing cross-domain skills and understanding the interconnectedness of various HR functions, HR professionals can position themselves as essential partners in organizational success.