Great Lakes Wire

Human resources professionals are often required to take on a variety of roles within their organizations, including acting as coaches, advisors, mediators, and strategists. According to Heather Nezich, writing for the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM)-approved partner ASE, there are seven key skills that can help HR leaders address workplace challenges effectively.

Nezich identifies "active listening" as an essential skill for building trust and uncovering issues that may not be immediately apparent. She states that this ability allows employees to feel heard and understood.

Another important skill is the capacity to spot compliance risks early by staying informed about current laws and regulations. This helps prevent potential problems related to outdated policies or documentation gaps.

HR professionals also need to balance lessons from past employee data with present concerns while planning for future workforce needs. Adaptability is highlighted as a crucial trait, enabling HR staff to respond appropriately in various situations—from addressing employee frustrations to advising senior leadership on strategy.

Understanding employee sentiment through surveys and observation allows HR teams to act before morale declines. The ability to handle high volumes of requests quickly without sacrificing accuracy or professionalism is also emphasized.

Finally, protecting company culture by promoting fairness, inclusion, and respect is described as the ultimate responsibility of HR professionals. By focusing on these areas, Nezich suggests that HR leaders can enhance their influence within organizations.

"You don’t need a cape to be a hero in HR. By developing these superpowers, HR leaders can strengthen their impact and help their organizations soar," Nezich writes.

For more information and resources related to human resources best practices, readers are encouraged to visit the Small Business Association of Michigan’s website.