As a new employee in an organisation, it is understandable when questions such as why do I have to visit the human resources department when the Executive Director is the boss. Also, as an employer, the question of how much authority can be given to HR in order to properly handle the workforce persists.
In this post, we will be answering the question of what are the functions of HR in a company. Though HR functions can extend beyond what is explained in this post, it is important to note that the functions highlighted address the consistent operations of HR in any organisation.
Recruitment and Training
For many organisations in Africa, attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry is a priority. And for this reason, HR managers play a key role in not only recruiting the very best, but also training them. HR helps to build the future of the organisation by overseeing the recruitment and bring process. Hiring qualified employees is just an aspect of an HR job; however in order to retain talent and remain competitive, HR managers are often saddled with the responsibility of launching employee development initiatives.
This could also lead to additional on-the-job training, professional development programs, or educational opportunities that allow employees to grow and develop in their current roles, as well as prepare them for career advancement within the organisation.
Training and Development
While recruitment and training primarily deals with the search for rewarding talents and induction to the goals and objectives of the organisation, development and training takes a step further by ensuring that the resources employees need to excel in their roles and advance their careers are provided.
And when employee development and training is encouraged, their skill, knowledge and competence is enhanced, thereby enabling them to perform their jobs effectively and contribute to the overall success of the business. As a result, employee engagement is fostered, motivation and loyalty is achieved, leading to job satisfaction and retention.
Performance Management And Appraisal
In performing the function of performance management and appraisal, you find HR establishing performance management systems to set clear performance expectations, provide feedback, and evaluate employee performance. This function, considered a very important one, enables managers to assess employees’ strengths and areas of improvement, identify training and development needs, and reward high performers.
Relations And Engagement
This is a function that is also known as Employee Relations and Engagement. It is a function in which HR uses to foster positive employee relations, as well as create a supportive work environment. Through this function, concerns, grievances and conflicts among employees are addressed, thereby promoting open communication and resolving issues in a fair and timely manner.
Compliance with Employment Laws and Regulations
It is mandatory that organisations adhere to laws and regulations. HR performs a function that ensures that the organisation comply with all relevant employment laws, regulations, and industry standards.
They also stay informed on policies and procedures accordingly, and advise management on legal compliance issues. As a result, legal risks are mitigated, fair and equitable treatment of employees is carried out.
This function basically protects the organisation from potential lawsuits and reputational damage.
Organisational Development
Another vital function is organisational development, which works side by side with Change Management. This plays an essential role in driving organisational development initiatives and managing change effectively.
Organisational development functions help in leading management efforts, communicate organisational changes to employees, and help employees adapt to new ways of working.
From recruitment and training, development and training, performance management and appraisal, relations and engagement, compliance with employment laws and regulations, to organisational development, HR functions are pivotal to the success of any organisation.
