The Role of the Senior HR Manager Training Course

March 13-16, 2023 | UK

The Role of the Senior HR Manager Training Course
The event focuses on the role of the HR manager with senior accountability and responsibilities for the effective deployment of the human resource, the most expensive asset within a business. Case study activities based on a business scenario will be included, encouraging participants to apply strategic thinking to the HR agenda, identifying potential, mitigating risk and planning for the future direction of the business. The knowledge, skills and behaviours required to act effectively at a senior level, including influencing and communicating with stakeholders on commercial aspects, are highlighted via the discussion exercises and the proposals made for the recommended strategy for the case study company. These exercises culminate in personal action plans that transfer the lessons learned to the situations of the participants attending, making the programme individually relevant and beneficial.

Spotlight

Problem solving is an essential skill for many professionals in today's complex work environment. However, research suggests that traditional problem-solving approaches may not be sufficient to tackle the challenges faced in organizations. To truly excel in problem solving, it is crucial to incorporate a range of "human" skills such as creativity, decision making, emotional intelligence (EQ), and persuasive tactics. In this article, we explore a set of principles that can guide you towards becoming an adept problem solver.

Get to the Root Cause: Applying the "5 Whys" Technique

One fundamental step that many individuals overlook when approaching a problem is identifying the real issue at hand. Rather than applying quick fixes that only address surface-level symptoms, it is important to delve deep into the root cause. The "5 Whys" technique can be a valuable tool in this process. By repeatedly asking "why" in response to a problem statement, one can uncover underlying factors and gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Often, it takes asking "why" multiple times, typically around five, to reach the core issue. Embracing this method can help you address problems more effectively.

Cultivate Curiosity and Open-Mindedness

To enhance problem-solving capabilities, it is essential to approach each situation with curiosity and an open mind. Avoid the temptation to prematurely judge or dismiss ideas that may lead to potential solutions. By fostering a mindset of exploration and receptiveness, you can tap into creative potential and uncover innovative approaches to problem solving.

If you want to cultivate curiosity, there are a few things you can do:

  • Ask questions: One of the best ways to be more curious is to ask questions. When you ask questions, you are actively seeking out new information and new experiences.

  • Be open to new experiences: Another way to be more curious is to be open to new experiences. This means being willing to try new things and to step outside of your comfort zone.

  • Pay attention to your surroundings: One of the best ways to stay curious is to pay attention to your surroundings. This means being aware of the people, places, and things around you.

  • Read widely: Reading is a great way to learn new things and to expand your horizons. When you read widely, you are exposed to new ideas and new perspectives.

Embrace Diverse Perspectives

Successful problem solving often requires considering multiple viewpoints and engaging with all parties impacted by the issue. Taking a holistic approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the problem's implications and potential solutions. By seeking alternative perspectives, you can uncover valuable insights and generate a broader range of options to address the problem effectively.

Discover Purpose: Unveiling the "Why"

Understanding the underlying motivation behind problem solving is critical to staying committed and focused on finding solutions. You must take the time to reflect on why a particular problem is significant and how solving it aligns with your goals. By clarifying the purpose and value of problem solving, individuals can harness their intrinsic motivation to drive them towards successful outcomes.

Personal Brainstorming: An Effective Starting Point

Before presenting ideas to a group or team, it is often beneficial to engage in personal brainstorming. This approach allows individuals to explore various solutions and generate creative ideas without the pressures of immediate external judgment. By giving oneself the freedom to ideate independently, valuable insights can emerge, setting the stage for more effective collaborative problem solving.

Experimentation and Prototyping

To minimize risks and maximize the potential for success, it is advisable to test out potential solutions through small-scale experiments or prototypes. By implementing a low-impact testing phase, managers and HR professionals can assess the viability and effectiveness of their proposed solutions before fully implementing them. This approach allows for valuable insights, adjustments, and improvements, ensuring a more refined and robust resolution to the problem at hand. An approach of continuous experimentation can have many benefits, including:

  • Increased learning: When we approach life as a series of experiments, we are more likely to be open to new experiences and to learn from our mistakes. This can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

  • Increased creativity: When we are constantly trying new things, we are more likely to come up with new ideas and to think outside the box. This can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.

  • Improved self-confidence: When we see ourselves as capable of learning and growing, we are more likely to feel confident in our abilities. This can lead to a more positive outlook on life and to a greater sense of well-being.

  • Reduced stress and anxiety: When we are not afraid to take risks or to make mistakes, we are less likely to experience stress and anxiety. This can lead to a more relaxed and peaceful state of mind.

By incorporating these six principles into your problem-solving approach, we can all significantly enhance our ability to address complex challenges effectively. Remember to start by identifying the root cause, approach problems with curiosity and an open mind, embrace diverse perspectives, understand your motivation, engage in personal brainstorming, and test potential solutions through experimentation. By implementing these strategies, you will be better equipped to tackle problems head-on and achieve meaningful resolutions in your professional role.


OTHER PAST CONFERENCES

AEC 13th Annual HR Summit 2023

April 26-28, 2023 | USA

The A/E/C HR Summit is North America’s largest event dedicated to the management of Human Resources in the A/E/C Industry. Co-hosted since its inception in 2010 by Bob Kelleher and The Employee Engagement Group, the 2023 Summit will be April 26-28th in Boston, MA. In today’s fast-changing and competitive landscape for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction firms, the role of HR is becoming more strategic and more critical than ever before. This is a unique opportunity to engage with A/E/C HR professionals and senior-level firm leaders just like you. This Summit will leave you energized and excited about finding the best talent, a solid grasp on emerging trends in talent acquisition, engagement, and retention; new approaches to learning; the most innovative and effective approaches to compensation and benefits; and the latest case studies in performance management. Learn firsthand why the role of HR has never been more important, and what you can do NOW to shape the future of your organization.

Maine HR Convention 2023

May 8-11, 2023 | USA

We return to the Samoset this May – the ancestral home of the Maine HR Convention. With a mix of everything the HR community loves about this conference – keynotes from around the country, information from the business and human sides of HR, networking, and camaraderie. Our purpose remains true – making a difference in the lives of your employees, the direction of your organization, your career path, AND how you impact your neighboring communities.

CHRO Summit: The Path Forward

April 26, 2023 | USA

Where will we be working? How will employees connect? How should managers lead? What will real inclusion look like? What will it take to recruit, engage and retain talent that wants work with meaning? How are we listening to employees? What are we doing with what we're learning? These are among the questions which businesses will need to address in 2023 - and at the heart of each of them is the CHRO as a strategic partner.

VISION 2023: Essentials

May 1-3, 2023 | USA

VISION 2023: Essentials will present topics most relevant to more effective management and collaboration with your global workforce, including productivity, compliance, employee experience, and labor optimization. Taking place in the heart of Music City, VISION 2023 will bring together like-minded professionals, industry experts, and business thought leaders to meet, collaborate, and discuss how to make smart investments in your workforce’s efficiency and engagement—now and as your business continues to evolve. Featuring keynote speakers, breakout sessions, training courses, networking opportunities, and much more, VISION 2023: Essentials is a can’t-miss event for those inspired to face the challenges of today’s modern workforce and lead your teams into the future with humanity, creativity, and ingenuity.

Spotlight

Problem solving is an essential skill for many professionals in today's complex work environment. However, research suggests that traditional problem-solving approaches may not be sufficient to tackle the challenges faced in organizations. To truly excel in problem solving, it is crucial to incorporate a range of "human" skills such as creativity, decision making, emotional intelligence (EQ), and persuasive tactics. In this article, we explore a set of principles that can guide you towards becoming an adept problem solver.

Get to the Root Cause: Applying the "5 Whys" Technique

One fundamental step that many individuals overlook when approaching a problem is identifying the real issue at hand. Rather than applying quick fixes that only address surface-level symptoms, it is important to delve deep into the root cause. The "5 Whys" technique can be a valuable tool in this process. By repeatedly asking "why" in response to a problem statement, one can uncover underlying factors and gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Often, it takes asking "why" multiple times, typically around five, to reach the core issue. Embracing this method can help you address problems more effectively.

Cultivate Curiosity and Open-Mindedness

To enhance problem-solving capabilities, it is essential to approach each situation with curiosity and an open mind. Avoid the temptation to prematurely judge or dismiss ideas that may lead to potential solutions. By fostering a mindset of exploration and receptiveness, you can tap into creative potential and uncover innovative approaches to problem solving.

If you want to cultivate curiosity, there are a few things you can do:

  • Ask questions: One of the best ways to be more curious is to ask questions. When you ask questions, you are actively seeking out new information and new experiences.

  • Be open to new experiences: Another way to be more curious is to be open to new experiences. This means being willing to try new things and to step outside of your comfort zone.

  • Pay attention to your surroundings: One of the best ways to stay curious is to pay attention to your surroundings. This means being aware of the people, places, and things around you.

  • Read widely: Reading is a great way to learn new things and to expand your horizons. When you read widely, you are exposed to new ideas and new perspectives.

Embrace Diverse Perspectives

Successful problem solving often requires considering multiple viewpoints and engaging with all parties impacted by the issue. Taking a holistic approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the problem's implications and potential solutions. By seeking alternative perspectives, you can uncover valuable insights and generate a broader range of options to address the problem effectively.

Discover Purpose: Unveiling the "Why"

Understanding the underlying motivation behind problem solving is critical to staying committed and focused on finding solutions. You must take the time to reflect on why a particular problem is significant and how solving it aligns with your goals. By clarifying the purpose and value of problem solving, individuals can harness their intrinsic motivation to drive them towards successful outcomes.

Personal Brainstorming: An Effective Starting Point

Before presenting ideas to a group or team, it is often beneficial to engage in personal brainstorming. This approach allows individuals to explore various solutions and generate creative ideas without the pressures of immediate external judgment. By giving oneself the freedom to ideate independently, valuable insights can emerge, setting the stage for more effective collaborative problem solving.

Experimentation and Prototyping

To minimize risks and maximize the potential for success, it is advisable to test out potential solutions through small-scale experiments or prototypes. By implementing a low-impact testing phase, managers and HR professionals can assess the viability and effectiveness of their proposed solutions before fully implementing them. This approach allows for valuable insights, adjustments, and improvements, ensuring a more refined and robust resolution to the problem at hand. An approach of continuous experimentation can have many benefits, including:

  • Increased learning: When we approach life as a series of experiments, we are more likely to be open to new experiences and to learn from our mistakes. This can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

  • Increased creativity: When we are constantly trying new things, we are more likely to come up with new ideas and to think outside the box. This can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.

  • Improved self-confidence: When we see ourselves as capable of learning and growing, we are more likely to feel confident in our abilities. This can lead to a more positive outlook on life and to a greater sense of well-being.

  • Reduced stress and anxiety: When we are not afraid to take risks or to make mistakes, we are less likely to experience stress and anxiety. This can lead to a more relaxed and peaceful state of mind.

By incorporating these six principles into your problem-solving approach, we can all significantly enhance our ability to address complex challenges effectively. Remember to start by identifying the root cause, approach problems with curiosity and an open mind, embrace diverse perspectives, understand your motivation, engage in personal brainstorming, and test potential solutions through experimentation. By implementing these strategies, you will be better equipped to tackle problems head-on and achieve meaningful resolutions in your professional role.

resources