6 Characteristics of an Effective HR Manager

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article |HR Manager|6 Characteristics of an Effective HR ManagerHR management is a strategic and coherent approach to managing an organization’s most valuable assets – its people. In general, the tasks of HR managers include recruiting, training and development, employee relations, and benefits administration.

To become an effective HR manager, it is vital to combine hard and soft skills. Hard skills can be quantified, such as experience in HR management. In contrast, soft skills, such as communication and people skills, are more challenging to measure but no less important. In this article, you will learn why possessing these characteristics is important to the role they play in an organization. The most successful HR managers share certain qualities and characteristics that allow them to excel in their roles. Here are 6 of them:

Strategic thinkers

To be effective, HR managers must be strategic thinkers, able to see the big picture and make decisions that will positively impact the entire organization. They must be able to develop and implement programs that attract and retain the best talent while also ensuring that all employees are productive and engaged. In addition, HR managers must be adept at handling employee conflict and managing change. With so much on their plate, it’s no wonder that HR managers are some of the most essential members of any organization.

Innovative

The job of an HR manager is constantly changing, so they must be innovative in their thinking and approach. They must be able to come up with new ideas that will improve the employee experience while also being open to trying new things and taking risks.
One of the latest trends in the HR industry is the use of recruitment technology. Some software programs involve a candidate tracking system which can help the HR team to keep track of job applicants and their progress through the recruitment process. With this innovation, finding and hiring the best candidates for the job has become more accessible.

Excellent communicators

Excellent communication skills are critical for HR professionals. They need to be able to clearly and concisely convey information to employees, as well as understand and interpret the communication of others.
In addition, they must be able to build strong relationships with employees. This requires effectively connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Good communication skills allow them to build trust and respect, which are essential for maintaining a positive work environment. Excellent communication skills are vital for any HR manager who wants to be successful in their role.


Strong leaders

HR professionals plan, direct, and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee the hiring and training of new employees, and they also work to improve the morale and performance of existing staff.
To be successful, they must be able to think strategically, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and be excellent communicators. They must also possess a deep understanding of labor laws and employee benefits. Additionally, they must be able to build relationships with other departments within an organization to create a cohesive work environment.

Good at problem-solving

From handling employee disputes to creating company-wide policies, HR managers are responsible for solving many problems. And while it may not be the most glamorous job, there’s no denying that they are good at what they do. After all, solving problems is literally their job description. But what makes them good at their job?

In addition to having strong people skills and an ability to think creatively, HR managers must stay calm under pressure and quickly make decisions. With so much on their plate, it’s no wonder they are some of the most sought-after professionals in the business world.

Detail-oriented

HR managers are typically detail-oriented individuals. This means that they have a keen eye for detail and can pick up on even the smallest details. This attention to detail is vital in HR because it allows managers to identify potential issues and investigate them further. Being detail-oriented also will enable them to keep track of employee records and performance data. This data can be used to identify trends and make decisions about training and development. Ultimately, being detail-oriented is an essential skill for them as it helps them to be more effective in their roles.

The bottom line

Undoubtedly, HR professionals play a vital role in any organization. From candidate tracking to employee relations, they are responsible for various tasks. And while the job may not be easy, it is rewarding. So if you’re thinking about a career in HR, make sure you have the right skills and qualities. With the right mix of skills and qualities, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an effective HR manager.

10 Positive Things You’ll Experience Working In A Care Setting

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article |Working in a care setting|10 Positive Things You'll Experience Working In A Care SettingWorking in a care setting doesn’t always attract positive news stories. Stories often focus on failings in care, tough working conditions, and overworked staff. So where are all the positive stories?

You can experience many rewards working in a care setting. For those who want to work with people and provide them with care services, it can be one of the most rewarding jobs out there. It’s time to shine a light on the upside of working in care and discover all the things that people love about it.

Check out these 10 positive things you’ll experience working in a care setting.

1. It’s a wonderful job if you like people

Working in a care setting is a very people-focused role. If you love working with people, then working in care can be very rewarding. Depending on the setting you choose, you could find yourself working with children, older people, vulnerable people, and families.

From the people you care for to the people you work with, you’ve got the opportunity to build some excellent relationships and show off your people skills.

2. There’s a big sense of family

When you work in a care setting, you’ll work very closely with the same people day-in, day-out. You’ll get to know people very well, helping to create a sense of family.

It can be all hands on deck with care settings, as you all help each other to deliver the best possible service to the people under your care. Working together to create a comfortable and happy environment can make a facility feel like home, helping to make the people you care for feel at ease.

3. There are a lot of challenging and fulfilling roles in care

There are many challenges that come with working in care, making it more fast-paced than you might’ve imagined. There is a range of roles you can undertake that can build on your previous experience, or even help you learn entirely new skills.

Explore retirement home jobs to see the types of roles that are out there. From nursing roles to administration, there are a lot of different paths you can take working in care. There are also a lot of opportunities to progress, giving you the chance to develop your career either in the care industry, or elsewhere.

4. You’ll meet some incredible personalities

When you work with people every day, you’ll get to meet some incredible personalities. Older people especially have some fantastic stories, and there’s a lot you can learn from them too. Knowing you’re making a difference in someone’s life can feel incredible, giving you the job satisfaction that a lot of people don’t get to experience.

Working in care gives you the chance to meet people you might never have met before, making the job interesting and full of memorable moments.


5. Carers come from all kinds of backgrounds

There are all kinds of people working in care settings. From volunteers to those who have changed careers, you will come across a lot of different people working in care roles.

What brings many people together in this field is the desire to help people. If you’re looking for a job that makes a difference, then a care role meets the brief. You could try volunteering your time at first to see if it’s the right fit for you, before applying for roles that interest you.

6. No two days are the same

One of the things you’ll discover about working in care is that no two days are the same. There are ups and downs, but it’s a job that will certainly keep you on your toes!

There aren’t many jobs that you’ll go to not knowing what’s going to happen that day, that’s for sure.

7. You can enjoy a great work/life balance

Working in industries like healthcare can come with a reputation for poor work/life balance. Working shifts can be difficult, especially when they can be unpredictable. Working in a care setting can provide a very different experience, helping you achieve a better work/life balance. Many care roles offer set shift times, while some facilities may be daytime only, helping you avoid night shifts.

8. You get to make a difference

People who work in care make a difference every day. Putting a smile on somebody’s face, or making them feel more comfortable can mean the world to someone, even if it takes the smallest effort on your part. Care workers have a vital role to play, and knowing you’ve made a difference can make every bit of hard work worth it.

9. It can help bring out the best in you

A lot of people feel lost in their careers. They may feel unfulfilled or unrewarded, which can lead to low morale. If this sounds like you, perhaps your skills aren’t being as used as they should, and moving to a more suitable role could be just what you need to shake things up.

If you’re wondering if a career in healthcare or care is right for you, perhaps it’s time to take a chance. Caring for other people gives you the chance to shine, so a switch to a care role may just bring out the best in you.

10. It could be the best decision you’ll ever make

If you’ve got people skills and a passion for helping others, a career in caring could be the perfect choice for you. It’s never too late to start, and you never know, it could just be the best decision you’ll ever make.

There are a lot of different types of healthcare roles, working in a variety of settings. It’s a job that may not always get the best press, but for those on the inside, it can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling jobs in the world.

5 Common Mistakes People Make with Career Development

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article |Career development|5 Common Mistakes People Make with Career DevelopmentDeveloping a career is something that a lot of people want. That’s understandable when developing your career often means having more responsibility and earning more money. The problem is that many people assume they are on the way up their career ladder without realizing they’re making common mistakes that hold them back.

If you want to make sure you develop in your career without any hiccups, be sure to avoid these five common mistakes.

1: Being Disorganized

No matter how talented you are at your job or how much you know, if you are consistently disorganized, you won’t make a good impression. Showing up late and having a messy desk may stop you from acquiring that promotion you’ve been waiting for. If you want to find a job in a different company, being disorganized won’t help you there, either. Without writing a high-quality resume/cover letter and researching companies, you won’t get anywhere.

2: Ignoring Other Companies

Are you staying in a job that is not right for you? You might enjoy your work, but the job itself might be the reason you are not developing in your career. If you are ambitious, you might need to spread your wings and leave for a company that allows more growth. In this situation, you’ll need great recommendations and a good resume. Try using a cover letter builder to make an even good impression, too.


3: Not Knowing Your Skills and Worth

Most people know what they want to do, but many don’t know what they are good at. If you don’t know what skills you bring to the career table, you won’t be able to highlight them and use them to your advantage. You might also end up in a role that doesn’t let you shine.

To avoid that, pay special attention to what you are good at and never underestimate your worth. Once you know what you do well, you can choose a career progression path that suits it.

4: Not Networking

Networking is essential in most careers. You might miss out on the senior-level job of your dreams just because you didn’t introduce yourself to that one person at that one business event. So, make it your mission to network more. The more people you know, the higher the chance you’ll be offered a job that suits your skills.

5: Not Listening to Mentors

You should not assume that you know everything from the get-go. You might be very talented in your career, but there is always more to learn, and your mentors know that. Take on board their lessons and use their advice to have a better chance at climbing the career ladder. You should also put yourself out there and ask your managers/supervisors for advice on career development.

People often make these five mistakes when trying to develop their career, which prevents their growth. That doesn’t have to include you, though. By avoiding them, you have a much better chance of succeeding and having a great career.

Why Graphic Design Is Becoming Increasingly Relevant Today

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article | Why Graphic Design is Becoming Increasingly Relevant Today

Graphic designs are visual compositions that comprise imagery, colors, text, etc., to convey a message, idea, or act as a symbol. Every industry today acknowledges visual design as a core means of approaching the masses. Graphic design is now taught through diplomas, degrees, and courses throughout educational institutions worldwide.

You might assume that this field may not be that complicated if you have visited simple websites like Canva and WordPress that already provide you with already built designs. However, the entire process is far more complex. To be a graphic designer professionally, you must develop a new and unique concept for each project, designing everything from scratch. This includes illustrating an image, laying elements, or creating a font.

Why It’s Important to Learn Graphic Design

Graphic design has integrated itself into minor aspects of our lives that we do not even notice. Often resumes, e-cards, brochures, or university projects require graphics. These are all things that we need in our daily lives. Basic graphic design know-how has become necessary for even those who do not plan to pursue it professionally. This is also an excellent skill for start-up entrepreneurs as they can save costs on creating a logo and social media marketing material.

Graphic Design As a Career

All companies now require graphic designers, and the market for it has expanded exponentially. There are numerous firms for graphic design, and companies also have departments or teams dedicated to this genre. Even graphic design has fields you can specialize in, such as website design, broadcast design, and application graphic design.

It also allows you to combine different passions. For instance, if you’re interested in construction and graphic design or have experience in both fields, you could work on a construction website design. Here, you deal with the looks of websites for various construction companies, promoting a specific type of image they need.

Graphic design is especially in demand in marketing or advertising agencies. Marketing firms handle campaigns for different brands that require you to construct entire social media campaigns or television advertisements. Publishing industries are constantly releasing physical or online content, from magazines to books, incorporating various visual design forms.

If you like flexible timing or are looking for a lucrative career that will allow you to explore your creative liberties, graphic design is the way to go. Each task or job is customized to each client, inspiring and enabling you to express your artistry. It’s comparatively easier to be self-employed as a graphic designer and set your hours.

Endnote

With the growing dependence on the internet, everyone now uses graphic design to promote themselves or any product. If you have a budding artist inside of you, becoming a graphic designer can help to express your creativity. Multiple inexpensive online platforms can train you in graphic design if you wish to kickstart your career in the field.

Why the MBA Alone is not Enough

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article | Why the MBA Alone is not EnoughThere was a time when simply achieving a Master’s in Business Administration would be enough to prepare someone for a launch into the executive role and C-suite. Today, even with an MBA from a top school, many are finding that specialization is essential, particularly for those who need to have a solid grip on the financial side and how the accounting records are generated.

While the role of an executive may not require one to have all the credentials of a certified public accountant, having a solid understanding of how accounting systems work and data is generated has become a bread and butter condition for anyone in a role that involves a budget and considerable company assets, as well as related decision-making. And as companies continue to move into enterprise systems where metrics are fed and re-utilized across disciplines, anything that is feeding into the accounting system as a measurement should be better understood by the manager whose program it affects.

Traditionally, accountants who want to win promotions and go higher in their organization than just a report supervisor or payables manager see the MBA as a natural stepping-stone level to achieve. However, for those coming from other disciplines such as sales or operations management, accounting may never have been a primary need at the time. Yet once they reach the executive level, everyone has to be familiar and versed in the income statements, cash flow reports, and balance sheets. It becomes the bread and butter of financial conversation in the company at the decision-making level. The standard MBA provides some training, but it doesn’t really expand on the accounting aspects with enough detail to really say one is versed in the field. The accounting concentration solves this problem effectively.

Where the typical MBA program will cover a summary of accounting, some attention to indirect cost accounting, and financial portfolio management, the MBA with an accounting concentration goes much further. It practically combines many of the key aspects of an accounting degree with an MBA, preparing the executive to not just be able to understand financial records and their generation fluently, but to also be able to oversee an accounting shop in a pinch if needed. For those who are going to be managing financial IT systems and related databases, the accounting concentration provides key details and aspects of how financial activity occurs and gets tracked, something that will never be obtained through a standard IT training path.

The added aspects of accounting training enhance one’s sense of ethics as well. When exposed to multiple classes and topics that focus on how compliance is provided, examined, and reported, a student walks away with an inherent understanding and sensitivity to staying on the right track, even when challenged to push the edges of the envelope in operational conditions. Upper-level managers and executives come out of an enhanced MBA program with a keen understanding of how to behave financially as well as what to avoid that can get them into serious trouble, both internally as well as with external regulatory controls where they operate, including international environments as well.


Students on the Masters of Business Administration accounting concentration path will also enjoy added specialization aspects also typically not available in other MBA programs. These topics include fraud examination, the marriage of accounting with information systems, government accounting, advanced auditing, and even non-profit organizational accounting, a key area of employment that is often overlooked but spans the country with opportunities in every city and state. No surprise, graduates find themselves easily starting in entry positions for high-level finance, and when married with database management they end up becoming key players in some of the latest financial activities today, such as data visualization and management dashboard design work.

Again, there are plenty of MBA programs to train one to be an executive in general, but the Master’s of Business Administration accounting concentration matches today’s demands far better, especially when it comes to understanding the finance that allows programs and businesses to operate and grow.