Future of HR Knowledge Center

Develop a more strategic HR department

The evolution of the HR profession is looking more and more attractive to some practitioners. These are the HR experts whose enthusiasm is piqued by the challenges of developing broader business acumen, acquiring global literacy, strengthening analytical skills and optimizing talent - in short, contributing to their organizations on a more strategic level. But not all HR practitioners will find their way easily in today's increasingly complex world of HR.

New competencies for HR professionals

A 2008 i4cp survey asked participants about the competencies HR professionals must further develop in order to keep up with the demands of their jobs. The responses confirm that the wide-ranging skill set for today's HR professionals includes leadership, change management, innovative thinking skills and metrics know-how. The 355 respondents also cited data analysis/interpretation and broad business operations acumen.

Balance the priorities of the HR profession

One of the most common complaints about HR is that many professionals lack the strategic, "executive-facing" measures needed to compare with such other functions as sales and finance. Furthermore, HR professionals need to avoid getting trapped in narrow specialist roles and to remain aware of their role to assess workforce capabilities and plan for future needs. Needless to say, HR professionals have quite a juggling act on their hands. What should an HR professional focus on?

The Evolving HR Profession Knowledge Center contains the research and insights to help answer this question:

  • HR reports and survey findings
  • Examples of corporate strategies
  • Playbooks and executive summaries
  • PowerPoint® graphics
  • Related research articles
  • A comprehensive database of third-party research
  • Online and offline Q&A with peers at other member companies

Learn how i4cp can help prepare and improve HR's strategic capabilities. contact us today.