It’s important that we recognise I have a biased view on this, however the solution of outsourcing Human Resources for small to medium-sized companies makes good sense.

There are a number of businesses that don’t require a full time HR person, however they recognise the risk of not having this part of their business covered.  Typically, the role is left to the accounts person as they are handling paying employees and dealing with benefits. This works until there is a major employee issue and a lack of appropriate expertise to manage the process.  By hiring a knowledgeable HR professional you are demonstrating your commitment to the growth of the organisation and the importance of managing employees appropriately.

If you need legal advice you enlist a lawyer, if you seek financial advice you find an accountant, so why wouldn’t you go to an HR professional if you need support with your people, your most valuable asset?  

It is important that you hire an HR person before you need them and don’t wait until you're overwhelmed with employee issues.  If you have a clear definition of the roles within your organisation and appropriate policies and procedures in place, then the business is more likely to run smoothly and ensures that your people know what is required. It will also assist management in the decision-making process when dealing with employee performance. HR will also assist with periodically reviewing these policies to ensure that they are still appropriate and up-to-date.  

An HR professional can offer an impartial view of your business and offer suggestions and advice based on their experience. They can also help source, hire, empower and retain the most appropriate people by utilising a robust recruitment process, appraisal systems, succession planning and employee development thereby reducing the attrition rate in the company.

If you are looking to grow your business you need to ensure you have your policies, mission, values, goals and action plans in place to support not only your current people but also future growth.  If your HR person knows your business they can influence your direction, working inside a variety of businesses they can offer assistance with organisational development and the strategic utilisation of employees with a view to achieving the organisation’s business plan and objectives. 

Angeline Long, HR Executive Solutions 0275 913 912 www.hrexec.co.nz