When employees and Human Resources (HR) have a strong relationship built on trust, it can be beneficial for both the employee and the organization. In order to foster a trusting work environment, both parties must be involved in actively building trust. Here are some tips for establishing and sustaining trust between employees and HR.
What Creates a Lack of Trust Between Employers and HR?
It is no secret that there is often a lack of trust between HR and other employees. This can be attributed to a number of factors, such as communication breakdowns and a perceived lack of transparency. Due to their role as a mediator between employees and management, HR representatives are often seen as siding with the company’s best interests rather than the needs of the individual. Additionally, confidentiality concerns can further erode trust, as employees may feel that their personal information is not being handled properly. Ultimately, it is up to HR departments to work on building better relationships with their coworkers, whether through increased transparency or a renewed commitment to clear and open communication. Only by fostering trust and understanding can HR truly succeed in its role as an employee advocate within an organization.
Create an Open Dialogue
Creating an open dialogue between HR and employees is the first step in building trust. This can start with providing detailed documentation and glossaries covering what employees can expect from their HR department. This also means that HR should actively look for ways to engage with employees regarding their questions or concerns. By listening closely to their feedback and responding promptly, employers can establish a sense of mutual respect. It’s also important that HR is transparent when communicating information about changes in policies or procedures so that there are no surprises down the line.
Set Expectations Early On
Setting expectations early on helps ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to the company’s mission, values, and goals. When everyone understands what is expected of them from the start, it eliminates any confusion or misunderstandings which can lead to distrust between employees and HR. It also helps create a culture of accountability where everyone knows they are responsible for meeting certain objectives within a set timeline.
Promote Transparency & Accountability
Transparency is key when it comes to fostering trust between HR and employees. This means that HR should always be honest about their expectations as well as any challenges or successes the organization is facing. They should also make sure that all processes are carried out fairly and consistently so there is no room for favoritism or discrimination.
Furthermore, HR should promote transparency by providing staff with clear performance reviews as well as regular feedback so they know what they’re doing right—and wrong—so they can continuously improve their performance going forward.
Building trust between HR and employees doesn’t happen overnight; it takes time, effort, communication, and consistency from both sides for true collaboration to occur. But by creating an open dialogue; setting expectations early; promoting transparency & accountability; managers will be able to foster stronger relationships with their staff members which will ultimately benefit both parties in the long run.
