Key questions in human resource management

Human Resource Management -- Questions

Why is the HR department playing a more significant role in organizational strategic planning processes today than it did 20 years ago? Today, HR is part of the growth and problem solving areas of the organization. In the past, it focused only on basic personnel functions. Companies realized that HR could do much more than it was involved in, so they expanded the duties of the department. Much of that took place as the need for and use of technology grew and companies became more global in nature.

Why is it correct to conclude that all managers are involved in developing and implementing HRM activities and programs? Every manager in the company has input into how the company is run and how the employees do their jobs. Because of that, they must understand, enforce, and agree upon rules and regulations made by that company. By working with HRM, the managers can help develop programs that benefit them and their employees to maximize efficiency and keep the company moving forward.

3. How has increased globalization influenced the way HRM is practiced in the United States? HRM now has to focus much more on global issues such as cultural competency. When an employee cannot relate to someone of another culture, he or she can risk harming the company's reputation and losing out on valuable clientele. There are ways to avoid that, and one is through proper training of employees to recognize and respond to cultural issues. Much of this training comes through HRM.

4. Why has the HRM function increased in stature and influence in many organizations? In the past, HRM was seen as handling paychecks, insurance, and complaints, but not much else. Now, it has been recognized as the vital component it is. Without HRM, much of the efficiency of a company would be lost. Because HRM coordinates so much of the work of the company through the management of employees, its function has continued to grow and be appreciated.

5. In your opinion, which of the HRM functions appears to be the most challenging to implement? Why? The most challenging HRM function to implement is recruitment. There are so many qualified people today, and with the electronic age, many more of them can find out about jobs at a particular company and apply for them. That makes the HRM department's job more daunting, and requires good filters to screen out particular people who are not right for the company. It takes time and effort to set up and maintain recruitment methods in a global society.

6. What difficulties would an HR executive face in assessing and then communicating the contribution of his or her area to the company profit margin? Most often, the profit margin is something viewed in black and white, such as sales numbers. Since the HR executive does not have a direct line to a particular level of profit, he or she must show how HR saved money for the company by proper recruitment, training, and retention of employees. Helping the company develop and advance would also need to be showcased.