Functions of Human Resource Management | Steven Macdessi
Over the years no other area of an organization has evolved so much as human resource management or HRM. Companies and organizations now have a separate department that handles personnel relations. The functions of human resource management are wide and varied as they consist of a number of activities that cover the various aspects of work. It is important to note that the functions of human resource management are different for small, medium and large scale organizations. The common denominator is that it gives emphasis on how leadership, management and devotion play crucial roles in achieving success. Evidently, human resource management is an integral part of any organization.
It is primarily responsible for recruiting and hiring skilled workers who can fuel the company’s growth. It decides whether to appoint freelancers or hire full-time employees for the particular set up of the organization. It then maintains documentation relating to the status of all personnel, including their benefits. After successfully screening and hiring the best talents and the most qualified employees, the HRM department then educates all employees to make sure they have a clear understanding of the rules and regulations of the company before they start working. Part of the process is the distribution and discussion of the company’s manual which delineates its mission, vision, guidelines, policies, terms and conditions. This way, the HRM ensures that employees are cognizant of their duties as well as the roles they have to play to contribute the success of the organization.
Once the employees are properly settled in their respective work, another important function of human resource management comes to the fore – providing the appropriate training. Quality training is very important because it will assure high performance levels at all times. It can even turn the most insipid individuals to skilful workers who can eventually become assets to the company. The main goal is to develop skill and competence among the employees so as to reap the benefits, especially in today’s highly competitive and commercialized environment. Studies have revealed that smaller companies grow in their HRM practices if they give priority to training of its employees as well as group-based incentives based on a comprehensive quality management strategy.
The performance of the employees and some for their personal issues is also another responsibility of HRM to ensure that the entire workforce remains efficient, motivated and satisfied with their working conditions. Human resource management can guarantee that optimum performance is achieved by assigning assistant staff and overseeing their work. HRM also has the unenviable task of listening to the sentiments of employees and attending to their specific needs. Internal conflicts must be resolved soberly and employees who break the rules and regulations must be dealt with accordingly.
Other important functions of human resource management include providing benefits and compensation; grievance alleviation procedures; giving equal opportunities to women and the physically challenged; and strict compliance with government regulations. Overall, the most valuable asset of any organization is its workforce. Managing this vital resource is the responsibility of human resource management. Its functions now encompass a wider area, including recruitment, training and motivating employees to work towards the achievement of the strategic targets of the organization without compromising their creativity and individuality.
