Evolving HR Leadership

Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD, MD and Founder of GlobusHR Consulting Ltd and creator of 360-degree feedback and profiling tools discusses how to navigate professional development in 2023.

Gone are the days when Human Resources was purely about traditional personnel management. It has now become the linchpin of corporate growth and resilience. As senior HR professionals, we are pivotal in fostering culture, managing change, and aligning workforce goals with business strategy. But often we do not prioritise our own professional development, ever crucial in an ever-changing corporate landscape. At GlobusHR Consulting, that’s something that we are passionate about, helping HR professionals with their own professional growth not just now, but into the future.

As part of my work at GlobasHR I developed comprehensive 360-degree feedback and individual profiling tools. Based on psychometrics, this resource supports self-assessment, facilitating insight into one’s leadership style, strengths, and areas for improvement. It therefore give a focussed approach to personal development, and its an approach which has now been made available in over 56 countries, and multiple languages.

This resource is particularly relevant given the current challenges we face in the world of work. The Covid-19 pandemic transformed the corporate world, bringing with it remote work, digitalisation, and a renewed focus on employee wellbeing. To lead in this transformed environment, as senior HR professionals we must understand where our strengths and weaknesses lie as we push to become experts in digital leadership. We need to master digital HR tools, from sophisticated data analytics platforms to innovative employee engagement apps. Being better also means becoming a leader in virtual space, where we are capable of managing and engaging a remote workforce.

But digital literacy is just the beginning. The acceleration of change within business and society demands that HR professionals have an adaptable and strategic mindset. We must stay abreast of the latest research, and trends, and apply them strategically to the unique needs of our organisations. Professional development programmes therefore need to incorporate continuous learning components, with an emphasis on business acumen, strategic thinking, and change management.

Emotional wellbeing priorities

With the rise of hybrid working models and remote working, the emotional wellbeing of employees has become paramount. This amplifies the need for HR leaders to develop robust skills in empathy, emotional intelligence, and resilience. Learning how to create psychologically safe environments, foster resilience, and lead with empathy are crucial components of modern HR professional development.

As busy HR professionals, we need flexible and accessible learning solutions. This is where technology comes to the fore. Online courses and webinars from reputable HR and business institutions often supply valuable, innovative insights. Podcasts and e-books can also supplement your learning, offering flexibility to learn anytime, anywhere.

Professional networks are still an essential resource. Networking events, whether virtual or in-person, offer opportunities to share best practices, discuss challenges, and gain insights from diverse perspectives. Joining HR professional organisations, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), can provide a wealth of resources and networking opportunities.

Finally, consider mentoring and coaching. A mentor who is well-versed in the challenges of HR leadership can provide invaluable guidance. Similarly, executive coaching, supported by the individual profiling tools from GlobusHR Consulting, can foster personal growth, allowing for self-reflection, goal setting, and the development of leadership skills.

Always moving forward

The HR landscape of 2023 presents both challenges and opportunities for our professional growth. By committing to lifelong learning and harnessing the power of digital resources, networking, mentoring, and bespoke services, we can continue to lead with insight, empathy, and resilience.

The more we grow, the better we can nurture the growth of our organisations and teams. Investing in our professional development is the most proactive strategy for thriving in the uncertainties of tomorrow.