Most Important Skills For A Senior Human Resources Manager At Precision Construction Services
Stephanie, a Senior Human Resources Manager, emphasizes empathy and patience as crucial skills, stating that "the two most important skills for any HR person are empathy and patience." This approach, including setting aside weekly "HR office hours" to be available for employees, allows Stephanie to build trust and facilitate productive conversations, demonstrating the importance of understanding the "whole being" of each employee for effective HR management.
Communication, Empathy, Patience, Problem-Solving, People Skills
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Stephanie McDonald
Sr. Human Resources Manager
Precision Construction Services
Cal Poly - SLO
Communications
Architecture, Construction & Design
Human Resources (HR)
Honors Student, Greek Life Member, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Empathy and patience are crucial skills for HR professionals, as they interact with diverse individuals and facilitate productive conversations.
2. Active listening and creating a safe space for employees to share concerns are essential for effective HR management.
3. Open communication and availability, such as through regular office hours, are vital for building trust and addressing employee needs.
Transcript
What skills are most important for a job like yours?
I would say the two most important skills for any HR person are empathy and patience. I say that because the job of an HR manager or HR business partner centers around people, and people come from all different backgrounds and walks of life.
It's our job to look out for the best interests of both employees and the company. We act as an objective third party within the company, helping people get to know each other and work productively together. This isn't always easy when you have people coming to work with differing backgrounds and perspectives.
Having empathy, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and listening to them are key. This helps facilitate meaningful conversations, whether it's one-on-one with an employee or helping managers have more productive discussions. Understanding an employee as a whole person, not just an entity within the company, has served me well in my career.
Patience is a virtue, and when you're dealing with people, you need it. You have to give them the space and time to share what they need to share with you. This allows me to do my job as an HR manager effectively.
I make time for this weekly through HR office hours. My door is open, and people can schedule time or know that I will be available in my office for that hour. They can drop by or give me a call.
This sets the precedent that my door truly is always open. There's always time set aside during the week for someone to come to me with any issue or topic they want to discuss.