Have You Organized to Maximize Business Partnerships?

For years I have organized my HR group around the departments/business groups they supported. As you look at all the discussion lines, websites, and blogs relating to HR being a business partner one could only wonder why we have centralized HR departments. Sure, there are come corporate needs but at the divisional, subsidiary, or non-corporate locations at are not noted beforehand here why is there a need.

Well some will say that is how we are organized and that's that. I can only say you who say that are not the HR leaders of today or in the future. How better can your HR managers/directors get more involved in the business, outset of issues, than when they are embedded in those groups they support. CENTRALIZED OFFICES ARE OUT!!!!!!!!!!

When you look at the competencies for HR professionals now and in the future, as Issac Dixson notes how better to hone these skills than to be in the thick of things with the managers, directors, and employees an HR person supports. Again these competencies are:

• Business Acumen
• Financial Savvy
• Quality Decision Making
• Managing Diversity
• Learn on the Fly
• Sizing People Up

These competencies are more in demand than ever in our businesses. So, take a look at your organization and think hard about your structure and how you can better develop your staff. Move them into the firing line to learn, grow, and develop into the HR leaders of the future.

Your opinions and thoughts are welcomed. Challenge this premise and let me know your thoughts.