Question

What are your experiences or impressions of HR departments based on your prior work experience?

Answer 1

HR departments vary drastically in their functions and way of thoughts when it comes to various factors. I have worked in multinational companies where there were 1000s of employees worldwide and also in smaller companies where there have been no more than 30 employees.

When the organization is large, the HR practices are more streamlined. There is a set process and policies that are in place for various measures. The HR department works closely with the management in order to adhere to the strategic objective of the company. The focus is on performance management, motivation, training and development of the employees. The influence of HR in large organization is quite significant. They oversee the hiring, firing, and benefit related key decision making.

When the organization is small, the HR practically works solely as a recruiter for the organization. In addition to that, there may a few administrative tasks that is undertaken by the HR. There is limited training, development or motivation related activities. The organization focuses on their own work and the HR is asked to perform various activities (such as recruitment, administration, etc) by the senior managers. Overall the influence of HR in small organization is very limited.