21 Mar HR Wise-Quotes and Some Eternal Wisdom

I thought I would remind you of a few of my HR-wise quotes and some eternal wisdom to help you in the workplace. Ready? Here goes:

HR skills are not the sole province of the HR department. 

If you fail to familiarise yourself with the HR knowledge you need, you put yourself at a significant disadvantage, particularly if you become subject to informal or formal HR processes. If you are an employee, you should at least be familiar with procedures and good people management practice.  

Foo-lish-ness = that which happens when you and I fail to read our HR policies and processes. 

I have reviewed enough HR cases and listened to enough stories to know that ignorance of processes costs individuals dearly. All kinds of mischief and underhandedness sometimes ensue when individuals derelict responsibility for reading and abiding by HR policies and procedures, in the name of ‘it’s boring’, or ‘I’m too busy.’

Don’t perish for lack of reading. 

It is my experience that some problems are alleviated by the affected individual, simply reading the policy. In some instances, increased knowledge has led to significantly improved outcomes. 

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. James 1:19

You may be in a provocative situation where you may be straining to give someone a piece of your mind. Please don’t – this piece of wisdom (if followed) will keep you in a safe place and help you to avoid eating humble pie. If you need to vent, do it in a safe space.  

Workplace drama. Avoid it like the plague. 

That little bit of workplace gossip that seems so tantalising could turn into drama. Or the need to belong to a clique or talking about a colleague behind their back could result in he said; she said scenarios, or worse, a grievance or disciplinary process. When you see drama coming, take evasive steps and avoid it like the plague; for your sake, your colleague’s sakes and workplace relations.

By Dawn H Jones, HR Specialist

Please note that this post does not constitute specific HR or employment law advice. If you require help, please contact an appropriately qualified professional or drop me an email info@hopeplace.co.uk