Human Resources: Friend or Foe?
Many consider the Human Resources (HR) department “roadblocks” or even “evil forces to reckon with" in the job search process. As with any generalization, neither description is accurate.
Whether we like it or not, every company pursuing and eventually hiring talent has a process to follow. This process usually involves several people who assume a role in the hiring process.
The first line, if you will, is typically HR. Why? Most Hiring Authorities have several items on their plate each day and have taken the art of delegation to heart. They do not want to review countless resumes or inquiries, nor do they have the time. The initial screening task is most often relegated to Human Resources, even if you send your resume directly to the Hiring Authority. The bottom line: HR is most often given this task by the person who may eventually be your boss.
Regardless of one's opinion, Human Resources plays an integral role in the organization’s hiring process, and it would behoove any job seeker to establish a strong business relationship with HR. It's also wise to remember that the HR Professional IS a working member of the company you wish to join and a part of the process. Many job seekers find that once a relationship is established, HR professionals can and will give you more insight into the company and, in some cases, to the hiring manager you may eventually meet.
HR has a job to do and should be treated, from an interview perspective, just as you would the actual hiring manager. Although Human Resources typically is not the final decision maker, it can be a strong influencer. Depending on the position level, HR can have a NO vote, meaning your credentials never reach the intended audience.
Treat these people with respect and understand that they are part of a process. Give them the same level of professionalism you would extend to the actual hiring authority. Prepare for your conversation with HR like you would if you were speaking with your future boss. The benefits of developing this relationship far outweigh the myths and personal biases that may exist.
Contributors, SJN Board Members:
Eric Walton, COO Tiempo Development
http://www.tiempodevelopment.com/
Jim O'Hara, Kellen James
http://www.kellenjames.com/
The first line, if you will, is typically HR. Why? Most Hiring Authorities have several items on their plate each day and have taken the art of delegation to heart. They do not want to review countless resumes or inquiries, nor do they have the time. The initial screening task is most often relegated to Human Resources, even if you send your resume directly to the Hiring Authority. The bottom line: HR is most often given this task by the person who may eventually be your boss.
Regardless of one's opinion, Human Resources plays an integral role in the organization’s hiring process, and it would behoove any job seeker to establish a strong business relationship with HR. It's also wise to remember that the HR Professional IS a working member of the company you wish to join and a part of the process. Many job seekers find that once a relationship is established, HR professionals can and will give you more insight into the company and, in some cases, to the hiring manager you may eventually meet.
HR has a job to do and should be treated, from an interview perspective, just as you would the actual hiring manager. Although Human Resources typically is not the final decision maker, it can be a strong influencer. Depending on the position level, HR can have a NO vote, meaning your credentials never reach the intended audience.
Treat these people with respect and understand that they are part of a process. Give them the same level of professionalism you would extend to the actual hiring authority. Prepare for your conversation with HR like you would if you were speaking with your future boss. The benefits of developing this relationship far outweigh the myths and personal biases that may exist.
Contributors, SJN Board Members:
Eric Walton, COO Tiempo Development
http://www.tiempodevelopment.com/
Jim O'Hara, Kellen James
http://www.kellenjames.com/
