by Tara Duggan
Human resources management involves more than recruiting, hiring and compensating full-time employees. Most current HRM functions also concern themselves with the health and well-being of all staff members and their concerns. Employees in businesses of every size demand that their employers pay attention to societal issues. In addition to growth and financial success, organizations have become accountable for their impact on society and the environment. The HRM function must be concerned with delivering positive results related to the company’s people and the long-term profit. As such, HRM plays a role in environmental stewardship, workplace responsibility, human rights protection and good corporate citizenship.
Changing Demographics
Traditionally, companies draw their labor pool from local residents. As technology makes it possible for personnel to work from where they live and whenever they want, a business can hire workers from across the globe. This means that companies need to account for their differences, as well. As older workers age, but remain in the workforce, a business needs to accommodate their unique concerns related to health, retirement and training on new tools. HR trends, including outsourcing, off-shoring and contingent worker strategies typically impact a business.
Employee Rights
Due to the increasing concern around privacy, HRM needs to be aware of social issues related to data security and privacy. Employers need to comply with local, state and federal regulations that ensure workers have a safe place to work. Effective leaders establish and communicate the standards for business conduct to maintain a highly ethical behavior for all. Illegal activities, such as fraud, theft and deceit, cannot be tolerated at any level, if a company wants to be successful for the long term.
Work and Family
Work and life balance play an important role for most employees. Offering day care for children and elders attracts workers with those responsibilities. Job sharing, rotation, leave, flexible hours and alternative work schedules make it possible for workers of every age and level to flourish at a small business. When people get help managing their personal lives, they can focus on work when they’re on the job. Stress, tension and interpersonal conflict tend to diminish. Even small companies can provide resources to their employees in terms of health and wellness.
Social Media Technology
Job boards and search engines don’t necessarily enable a company to find high-quality candidates. University graduates and other job seekers increasingly use social media to make connections and find employment. Employers also can use these mechanisms to attract and retain workers. Social media tools for businesspeople, such as LinkedIn, allow busy professionals to create a profile and build a network of productive relationships.
