by Gloria Welton
Dianne Griffin, Human Resources Generalist for Action Aero, talked to newcomers to PEI during Alternative Career Week about the role and purpose of the Human Resources profession.
This field has seen growth over the years as more PEI companies seek human resource supports to help recruit and retain staff.
Dianne has worked in this profession for many years and has a lot of advice to offer when it comes to the traits required for this field of work.
“Human Resource Specialists hire the right talent that will match with company objectives,” says Dianne. “We work to train and develop staff into gold-star employees.
“We manage policy and programs, follow federal and provincial labour laws, and make sure everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Conflict resolution is a big part of the role. When situations come up, we get people to sit down and talk together face to face and find solutions.”
Traits of a good HR person
- Highly organized and great record keeper. “We have to keep records of critical conversations, decisions, and follow-up.”
- A multitasker who looks at a situation as a whole from each person’s perspective.
- A strong negotiator who finds a good outcome for all involved.
- A good communicator.
- Enjoys frequent challenges.
- Shows empathy, listens carefully, and talks to all parties to see the full picture.
- Cooperative, shows discretion, and maintains confidentiality. “It is about doing the right thing for all involved.”
“HR staff are there to help each employee do their job. Sometimes we need to sort through root causes of disruptions and help people think outside of their conflict to find good solutions.”
HR staff need to know if there is a hiring pool to draw from when new employees are needed. “Right now that is a huge challenge for any company because there is a shortage of people applying for work.
“We have to find ways to retain staff by making them comfortable and confident in their role so they will stay. It is a huge financial investment to take on new staff only to have them leave in a short time.
“Network with HR staff at other companies to see how they approach various challenges, and don’t to be afraid to make changes. It is important to reach out to find other great ideas that are working.”
Be curious about learning new ideas and new ways of looking at situations. “It is important to look at a situation from different perspectives.
“When you are feeling overwhelmed it is important to have a mentor who you can be truly honest with, someone who can give you feedback that can put you back on track.
“Attend meetings and seminars to enhance learning. In this career you can make a difference.”
Are you a fit for a career in HR?
- Are you a person who is considered to be a leader?
- Do people come to you for advice?
- Do you have great soft skills? “It is not what you say but how you say it that makes a difference.”
- Are you OK with always being in demand?
- Are you a people person? Can you easily make connections to bring out the best in people?
- Are you adaptable and open to change?
- Can you read body language – both verbal and non-verbal cues?
- Are you a good listener? Do you listen, learn, and validate?
- Can you de-escalate and resolve conflict?
“In my job I need to understand what matters most to people. It is my responsibility to do my best to negotiate with all parties in the company to build a rewarding employee experience. Striving for retention and reducing turnover is how to rate success.”
For more about careers in Human Resources, click here