Human Resources
Human Resources (HR) is the functional area within an organization whose purpose is to design, implement and manage the philosophies, policies and processes for managing the employment of individuals by the organization.
As HR is a functional area, there are many processes that can be attributed to it. However, HR departments do not follow a uniform list of duties and may or may not ascribe to all “typical” HR duties.
Typical duties of HR include the establishment of policies that adhere to federal, state and local laws; organizational design; compensation planning; benefits planning and administration; formal recruitment of employees; onboarding of employees; employee records-keeping; performance management; and labor relations.
Human Resources Management is centered on the understanding that although human beings are resources, they are not machines that can be engineered, tuned-up, or repaired. Rather, employees require their employers to take an interdisciplinary approach in addressing their many needs. Those whose jobs entail a Human Resources function must draw on elements of psychology, negotiation, sociology, and business administration.
Many different and complementary positions can exist within a Human Resources department.
Related Articles
Until recently, there has not been significant focus on the onboarding of new employees into organizations. Sure, most companies host new hire orientations where benefits are reviewed, codes of … more
Preparing for a NegotiationEmployers face negotiations with employees in all aspects of the relationship, but two types of negotiations are particularly important: the first occurs once, upon hire, … more
In traditional compensation programs, a promotion results in an automatic pay increase. This uniform approach can be problematic for several reasons.
Not all promotions are of equal value. … more
Organizations are made up of individuals. Although these individuals tend to act normally and productively, some react adversely to the specific roles and situations they face at work. At any level of … more
- Are unions bringing workers together or are they dividing employees?
The word “union” outside of the workplace, brings to mind thoughts of harmony and understanding, but within the workplace, it conjures thoughts of divisiveness and opposition. Business … more
