Mini-rant...my apologies! I just need to get this out of my system.
I don't even work in HR yet and I'm getting so sick of the negative sarcastic comments being thrown at me about how HR just talk BS and are 'the enemy'. Instead of seeing them as a friendly and safe bridge between the staff and management they view HR almost like the political 'Leader of the opposition'. As though they operate solely for the function of standing as a stumbling block for any and all suggestions and requirements from both the business and the workforce.
Perhaps I need to be a bit thicker skinned. How long does it take to reach a stage where you don't take it personally when everyone around you spouts nothing but negativity towards your chosen profession?
Comments
Jessica - Ive been a HR Administrator in the Army for the last 10 years and the attitude there was no different. We were consistantly slagged off, always to blame if something went wrong and just generally had an (undeserved) bad reputation. For the first 5 years or so I used to argue back and stand up for my profession but i realised i was fighting a losing battle and the best thing i could do to counter this negativity was just be the best i could possibly be at my job. I stuck to the rules, followed policy and procedure and just worked hard. I eventually earnt myself the respect i deserved but it is tough.
Good Luck!
You might find this useful as well
It's difficult Jess at times but this is our challenge. The perception of HR is some organisations is that we are a barrier instead of an enabler. It's good to let off steam though and you'll always find some sound advice in this forum I'm sure.
My advice - ignore the negativity and model your behaviours on what you think HR should be about and what HR should do. You can change opinion by demonstrating and role modelling the thing that HR should be and can be and bring this change to life. The alternative is to confirm to the existing view and do what they are expecting. Remember though you'll never please everyone all of the time ;-)
Here's a couple of articles to get that motivation and determination going as we have the ability to change people's perception it won't come from anyone else.
HR : A 10 point agenda for change
What HR should be thinking in 2013
"Be the change you want to see in the world" - Gandi
Have a great week :)