Question

Describe the role of HR in supporting (and/or leading) positive social change within an organization, as well as the impact of those efforts on an organization’s workforce, organizational culture, and surrounding community. In your response, include at least three examples of positive social change that you have read about or experienced within an organization.

Answer 1

HR's role in supporting and/or leading positive social change within an organization is to first educate the employees of the positive social changes to come, including how they will affect employees, the company and even the surrounding community. This can be done by:

• Conducting team meetings
• Developing and distributing informational materials
• Displaying posters that generate excitement about the changes
• Meeting with employees one on one or in small groups to address their concerns or share ideas

The impact of positive social change can include the pride employees may feel when participating in these efforts. In terms of organizational culture, these efforts may also help to promote open dialogue among different departments. The community at large may also take pride in the presence of a local employer who fosters an environment that initiates positive social change.

Three examples of positive social change can include:

1) A company committee that raises money to help out less-fortunate families during the holidays

2) A company committee that helps formerly incarcerated people who have served their time transition back into the community

3) The modification of production tasks that allow people with disabilities to work on a full-time basis