Every company needs a competent human resource (HR) manager to help manage its talent pool. As a business grows, so does its workforce. And the larger the workforce, the more challenging it becomes to manage.
An effective HR manager possesses soft skills such as organizational and communication skills. They can think of solutions fast without compromise. They are ethical leaders who can influence employees positively to achieve the company’s goal.
Here are 4 key skills to be an effective human resource manager:
1. Communication Skills
Communication is one of the most important skills for an HR manager since they are usually involved in recruitment and employee management. It is essential to learn how to listen carefully and respond appropriately. As an HR manager, you are the vital connection between the employer and the employees. Both sides look up to you to relay information. This means you will need to interact with employees from all levels and top management.
Communicating effectively with entry-level employees is not the same as communicating with the CEO. When building a career in the human resource you have to improve on your communication skills both written and verbal. And since communication is a two-way process, it is also a must to improve your active listening skills. These are the same qualities employers look out for when hiring an HR manager.
2. Conflict Management Skills
Conflicts are bound to happen in the workplace. As an HR manager, you have the responsibility of professionally diffusing the situation so all parties involved can still work together peacefully. Mediation and negotiation form the basis for conflict resolution. Listen carefully and empathically to both sides before making a decision. Organize team buildings to strengthen the bond between employees. A strong team will have fewer conflicts and will increase productivity.
3. Decision-Making Skills
To make sound decisions, one needs to be a critical thinker. Decisions made by an HR manager can alter the course of an entire company. The higher superior trusts that you will make the right decision every single time. To learn how to make such decisions, you should learn to be diligent in your work. Take time to research important matters such as when conducting a background check during recruitment. Weigh the pros and cons of any decision before taking a stand. And in the case of uncertainty, ask for the approval of higher superiors.
4. Ethical Skills
A great HR manager is ethical at all times, not just when it suits them. Every recruitment should be transparent and unbiased. You must make sure that both employees and the employer abide by the company’s rules and regulations.
An HR manager has a lot of responsibilities that must be taken with utmost seriousness. You are tasked with managing the company’s most vital resources – the workforce. Consistently improve your HR management skills to remain the best at what you do. Employers rely on you for the success of their business, and employees, for fairness in the workplace.
