Every industry faces unique challenges. For example, the cybersecurity industry still faces a global shortage that exceeds 3 million people. The human resources industry is no exception to this rule.
Human resources professionals must adapt to rapid changes in business, such as tech shifts. These HR challenges are not a trifling matter, either. HR pros must maintain legal and regulatory compliance while meeting internal goals.
So, what are the most common HR challenges working HR pros currently face? Keep reading to learn more.
Remote Work
One of the biggest challenges in HR management in the last year was the mass shift to remote work. Many company programs went on effective hiatus because of the pandemic. Yet, HR departments must still make sure employees can upskill or certify for professional credentials.
On top of that, HR pros must still ensure new employees get the right onboarding experience despite working remotely. Fortunately, options like virtual shadowing, virtual town halls, and video conferenced team check-in help with that. Additionally, HR managers can also use the help of HR dashboard solutions, which can help with easily monitoring the entire recruitment process, from application to hire.
Recruitment and Hiring
Many companies use systems like applicant tracking software as part of their hiring process. Initial screen interviews over the phone are also common practices in many businesses. At the end of the day, though, in-person interviews for final round candidates were the norm.
Now, HR departments must deal with the challenges of a completely remote recruiting and hiring process. While some elements remain the same, HR pros must find ways to ensure all candidates get a reasonable final interview through video conferencing.
Health
An HR department also has the often thankless task of managing issues around physical and mental health. The mental health strain on so much of the workforce over the last year hasn’t made that task any easier. HR departments can help spearhead programs to offer mental health support to employees or direct higher-ups toward good third-party programs.
HR management can also lean on technical solutions for some problems, such as health and safety software.
Change Management
Change initiatives often drive organizational health by discarding old methods or technology. Unfortunately, they also foster resentment among employees when handled poorly. For example, simply announcing the date that a change will go into effect will drive anger.
HR departments can help change initiatives succeed, but HR professionals typically need more training on change management to make that help a reality.
HR Challenges and Your Business
The sheer volume of public and professional upheaval over the last year created almost unprecedented HR challenges. The challenges ranged from making sure employees had the technology they need to do their jobs to helping them with their mental health.
These challenges went above and beyond the existing challenges that go with rapid technological progress and the change management that requires. Much as HR pros help ensure other employees get the right training, they can also use additional training about managing new challenges.
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