Biggest Challenges Faced by an HR Manager at a Non-Profit Group Home
Sharon, an HR Manager at a Non-Profit Group Home Housing, finds the biggest challenge in the role to be the inherent loneliness of advocating for both employees and the company without having someone within the organization specifically advocating for HR, as "there really is nobody at the local level within the organization that is supporting HR". To combat this isolation, Sharon emphasizes the importance of finding mentors and networking outside the organization for support and advice, as this "can really help make that journey less lonely".
HR Challenges, Employee Advocacy, Workplace Loneliness, Networking, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sharon Mooney
HR Manager
Non-Profit Group Home Housing
Baylor University
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey Master of Science - MS, Human Resources Management and Services
Fine Arts, Music
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Human Resources (HR)
Disabled, Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. HR can be an isolating role, as you are advocating for everyone else's needs within the company but often lack internal support.
2. It's important to find mentors and build a strong network outside of the organization for support and guidance.
3. Joining HR organizations and attending industry events can help combat the loneliness and provide valuable connections.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your role?
HR can feel like an island. It's challenging to be in that role because you're advocating for everyone – the employees and the company. You're always trying to see the best in your team and the organization, and looking out for the good of all.
The difficult part is that there's often no one within your organization looking out for you. This can make the role extremely lonely.
I've seen other organizations and people market themselves as "HR for HR," and I love that concept. There truly is no one at the local level within an organization supporting HR, while HR supports everyone else.
Navigating this, especially early in a career, is challenging. Finding people outside the organization for support is crucial. Seek out mentors and individuals you can rely on for good and legal advice.
Networking and participating in external HR organizations and events can significantly reduce that sense of loneliness. The loneliness that comes with performing this function is, by far, my biggest challenge.