HR Competencies

Human Resources function is most important function in an organisation. HR is involved in every part of the organisation. In general human resource professionals major activities are allied with talent attract, develop, retain high performing staff and employee separation process and comply with various employment laws.

HR professionals must possess behavioural, technical, functional skills and knowledge to perform HR activities effectively.

To succeed in the HR role, HR professionals having behavioural skills is not enough but also he must have the ability apply practically to drive the success of the organisations.

Key Skills HR Professional must have;

Knowledge of Human Resources

HR professionals must possess expertise in core human resource functions. Expertise in People, organisation and workplace challenges. 

People:

HR has to assess current workforce behaviour, motivation factors, values, and organisation workforce requirements. Identify right talent, engage them and enhance their skills and abilities to deliver results.

Organisation:

HR professional must have thorough understanding of organisation structure and design the appropriate HR service model to fit the organisation. Align all HR functions i.e. hiring, talent management, compensation and benefits, learning & development, workforce management, Labour law compliance & statutory obligations. Integrate HR operations with organisation to ensure consistent delivery of services.

Workplace:

HR must be able to address day to day workplace issues. The present workplace witness diversified global workforce. The HR has to balance local needs with global trends.

Leadership:

HR must have good leadership qualities, understanding people and people’s challenges. Provide innovative and practical solutions to their challenges.

Ethical practice

Ability to understand core values, integrity and accountability in business practices while dealing with internal and external stakeholders.

Business Acumen

Ability to understand organisation, business model and business needs. If HR understands business he can be able to deliver effective HR services internal and external stakeholders.

Relationship management

Ability to build trusted relationship, managing teams, managing conflicts effectively, creates and maintains professional contacts and network.

Consultation

Ability to work with stakeholders, evaluating and identify challenges, advise on emerging issues and providing effective suggestions/solutions. Evaluating challenges, design, and implement solutions.

Critical thinking

Ability to provide logical thinking, identify critical business challenges and provide solutions

Global & cultural effectiveness

Ability to work with multi generations, culturally diversified workforce, having global mindset,

Communication

Good communication skill is essential for any profession, but for HR communication is essential skill. In day to day operations HR has to exchange information, giving constructive feedback and solutions to his internal and external stakeholders. Communication has many folds, being able to communicate in written, oral, presentation skills in he must be able to listen and understand what others concerns are very important skill.

Working with various industry background, I acknowledge above competencies are most important which HR professionals must possess to work effectively. Everyone may not be expert in each of the above skills, it can be learned, it takes time and I am learning.

Source: SHRM learning system