Question

Human Resource Management (HRM) takes a strategic approach in developing and maintaining a qualified workforce to gain a competitive advantage. The role of a Human Resource Manager in the strategic process is to focus on the specific areas that will contribute to the overall effectiveness of the organization. If you were an HR Manager, on which would you focus? Give a rationale for your choice.

• Knowledge workers: Seeking individuals who have the skillset to perform the specific functions of the job.
• Financial Crisis: Ensuring the organization can meet financial obligations when the external environment (economy, laws) negatively affects the organization and prevents it from meeting forecasts for annual sales.
• Ethically and socially responsible to the needs of society.
• Work life balance for all employees.

Answer 1

If I were a HR manager, I would like to focus on work-life balance for all employees. Work-life balance is the lack of opposition between work and other life roles. It is the state of equilibrium in which demands of personal life, professional life, and family life are equal. It can benefit organization in long run by-

1. Increase productivity

2. Lower absenteeism

3. A happier, less stressed workforce

4. Improvements in employee health and well being

5. A more positive perception of an employer

6. Greater employee loyalty, commitment and motivation

7. Creates healthy-work environment

8. Employers or managers can save money by reducing costs

When employees are satisfied with the organization and organization wants them to work ethically and they can easily accept that; and work ethically and socially responsible to the needs of society. Proper and regular training can develop skill-set of employees. These are also important for HR manager to focus but he or she should first start with satisfy employees and build trust among them for the organization.