When Is It Appropriate To Contact Human Resources?
Starting a new work is an exciting undertaking, especially if it's your first one. There's a lot to remember and a lot of people to meet – one of the most essential persons you'll meet is your Human Resources manager, whose primary goal is to ensure your well-being. You're now a valuable asset to the company, a vital cog in its machinery, therefore it's critical that HR exists to ensure that you and your coworkers are happy at work.
Despite this, there is occasionally a misunderstanding regarding when it is acceptable to contact HR. You could wonder if your question is serious enough, if your complaint is valid, or if there is anything they can do to assist you. To assist you, here are five scenarios in which you should always contact Human Resources.
Problems with your boss, coworkers, or customers:
If you believe you have been singled out, harassed, or bullied at work, you should file a grievance against that person - coming to HR is a given. But, did you know that, according to recent revisions to the Equality Act, you can expose bias even if you aren't directly prejudiced against? You have the right to complain to your employer if you believe someone has been treated unfairly because of their sexuality, age, color, or handicap, even if you don't share the feature that is being discriminated against.
'The long and short of it is that if it offends somebody, it shouldn't be in the workplace,' says Kevin Orchard, a certified HR manager from Cornwall. 'And if you're uncomfortable approaching the individual directly, you can ask HR to mediate or even raise the matter through a third party.' It's conceivable that you'll be able to stay anonymous.'
Changes in personal circumstances:
HR will be your first point of contact if you need to seek time off on short notice, reduce your hours, work flexibly, or have questions about maternity or paternity leave. They'll communicate with your manager and attempt to accommodate everyone's schedule.
Personal entitlements:
When you start a new job, talk to your HR manager about the benefits package your company offers. What is the company's strategy for the upcoming mandatory pension contributions? Is it possible for you to participate in a cycle-to-work program? If you work at a computer, can you obtain a free eye exam? Is there going to be a bonus this year?
Look for opportunities:
If you wish to advance in your current role, HR can assist you. Internal training or work shadowing might be used to accomplish this. Given the current economic situation, it's very likely that they'll go for it if it would benefit the firm and provide your job more flexibility. Alternatively, you might enroll in outside training. Inquire about possible part-funding possibilities, or whether the firm will at least offer you time off to finish the course (which is more probable if it's work-related).
Just to let off steam!
It's sometimes beneficial to vent your frustrations to a neutral third party. It won't benefit anyone if you bottle up your sentiments about your employment, your coworkers, or the way your bosses manage their firm. You could believe your HR manager isn't interested, but you're giving them crucial information about the company's culture and operations. They'll probably appreciate your opinions and ideas as much as you appreciate getting it off your chest.