For growing businesses, there’s many pivotal moments when they must make strategic decisions to sustain their upward trajectory. Among these crucial decisions is the hiring of the first HR professional—a role that can significantly impact the company’s future.
The leadership team recognises that to maintain their momentum and foster a positive workplace culture, they need specialised expertise. This is where hiring an HR professional can help streamline people operations, ensure compliance, enhance productivity, and nurture employee wellbeing.
We recently ran a poll on LinkedIn to uncover the biggest driver for a growth business to hire their first HR professional. It’s one of our most favourite hires to make at Peeq, and we were keen to understand the top motivator for making this hire.
Here are the results:
The results tell us that the most common driver is the need to hire and retain staff. As businesses grow, the demand for a structured and efficient recruitment process becomes critical. A dedicated HR professional not only streamlines hiring but also enhances employee retention by fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Hiring and Retaining Staff: The Primary Driver
With a substantial 56% of respondents identifying hiring and retaining staff as the main driver, it’s clear that growth businesses prioritise building a robust and sustainable workforce.
As companies expand, the complexity of recruitment and retention increases. A skilled HR professional plays a pivotal role in creating and implementing effective hiring strategies, ensuring the company attracts top talent. Moreover, they develop retention programs that address employee needs, providing career development opportunities and fostering a positive work environment. This not only reduces turnover rates but also builds a loyal and motivated workforce.
HR Compliance and Risk Management: A Close Second
Coming in second with 29% of the votes, HR compliance and risk management is another significant factor. The landscape of employment laws and regulations is intricate and ever-changing.
For growing businesses, navigating these complexities without specialised knowledge can lead to costly mistakes. An experienced HR professional ensures that the company adheres to all relevant laws, thereby mitigating potential risks and liabilities. They stay updated on legal changes, conduct regular compliance audits, and develop policies that protect the company from legal disputes and penalties.
Maximising Staff Productivity: A Key Consideration
Maximising staff productivity garnered 13% of the votes. While not the top priority, it remains a crucial consideration for businesses. HR professionals contribute to productivity through performance management systems, training programs, and employee engagement initiatives.
By aligning employee goals with company objectives and providing regular feedback, HR can significantly enhance productivity. Additionally, they implement strategies to boost morale, which directly impacts overall performance and job satisfaction.
Employee Wellbeing: An Emerging Focus
Although employee wellbeing received the smallest percentage of votes at 2%, its importance cannot be underestimated. A focus on wellbeing can lead to a healthier, more engaged workforce, reducing absenteeism and increasing job satisfaction.
HR professionals design and implement wellbeing programs that address physical, mental, and emotional health. These initiatives, though less prioritised in the initial stages of growth, are crucial for long-term employee satisfaction and retention. As the business matures, integrating comprehensive wellbeing strategies becomes increasingly essential.
Concluding Thoughts:
Our research clearly indicates that hiring and retaining staff is the main driver for businesses to bring in their first HR professional. However, compliance and risk management, maximising productivity, and employee wellbeing are also vital factors that contribute to the decision.
As businesses grow, the role of HR becomes multifaceted, addressing various aspects of workforce management to support sustainable growth.
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