06 Sep It pays to be HR-wise

Over the last several months, I have learned that being HR-wise is not an option – it is an essential requirement that can make a crucial difference as to how employees navigate employment processes. It all started late last November.  Here are a few examples:

• A friend and former colleague contacted me for advice after her employer wanted to manage her under formal performance management processes.
• In the same month,  I received a call from another person whose employer was addressing their performance issues inappropriately.
• Earlier this year, one person was wrongly suspended by their employer.
• In the middle of this year, another was summarily dismissed without a proper process.

On top of facing challenging processes, they were shocked, scared, frustrated and bewildered.   I witnessed a lot of unnecessary pain and, suffering.   A lot.  As we worked together, they learned to protect their health and well-being,  they understood they could overcome, and they learned how to respond to the processes.

So what happened to them?

• My friend and a former colleague successfully challenged the decision to manage her under formal process and, her employer committed to supporting her to improve under the informal stage.
• The person whose performance was assessed unfairly successfully challenged her employers through other processes.
• The person who had been suspended had her suspension lifted with no case to answer.

They all achieved favourable outcomes, one of the things that would have made a significant difference is if they had familiarised themselves with their organisation’s policies and processes.  On that note, if you are not yet familiar with your organisation’s HR policies, and procedures, please make make it a priority.   

In the meantime, remember it pays to be HR-wise.

© Dawn H Jones

Initially published 8 October 2019; updated 6 September 2020.

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