My experience of HR when I worked as a line manager in a large public organisation was that when HR was less in senior management’s pocket and could steer a course between the needs of employees and the needs of senior managers, it was more trusted by line managers.
In recent years, the focus has shifted to the needs of senior management, and HR has become harsher in the way it operates.
The head of the organisation has been quick to promote the ‘teachings’ of whoever is the most fashionable business guru and, sheep-like, HR has followed.
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My advice to HR professionals is to retain some independence and keep in mind the needs of all employees, not just senior management, difficult though that may be.
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