HR seems forever to be seeking to justify its position within organisations. This isn’t a question of why organisations need an HR department, but of how important HR is. We have seen how in times of crisis HR plays a critical role in ensuring an organisation’s workforce is ready and well supported to do what they need to do. But is there a sense that in the usual run-of-the-mill workday, the function can slip too easily back into being an administrative department?
In this issue of HRO Today EMEA, we take a look at how strategy can unlock HR’s value and importance within a business. Strategy gives HR a place, a direction, and practical actions that tie-in with and directly impact a business’ progress. It is a way forward that means what HR does becomes critical to what the organisation does.
This is by no means an easy path, and requires HR professionals to take a step forward, gain clear business skills, and shoulder more responsibility (cue access to your career coach, also featured in this issue). However, it also makes the function more dynamic, meaningful, and value-adding rather than simply responsive and fire-fighting.
The summer months can often be a time for relaxation and reflection, so why not take this time to consider what’s next for your own HR work—both within your business and within your own HR career. It will enable you to come back more committed and focussed for the future.
Simon Kent
Editor-at-Large
