Structure, good order, and discipline are hallmarks of successful organizations. It’s not about staying within the lines or how far you can push the boundaries - HR, done right, facilitates the growth of both the organization and the individual. Common goals, realistic expectations, measurable performance standards.

Whatever your feelings are about HR, or your motives for wanting to be an HR professional consider this - your ability to impact a life both positively or negatively rests with your words and actions.

I’ve said it a hundred times, I’m not that touchy feely HR person and I am not interested in excuses. Behaviors have consequences - good and bad. So you might think, there is no heart in this HR soul and I would say you got it all wrong. My HR heart is centered on success:

H - humility and humor
Acting responsibly and with confidence while understand that you don’t have all the answers is foundational. No one person has all the answers or knows everything. Being accepting of others is key to keeping your heart pure while working in HR. And humor, you have to be able to laugh. Some situations are beyond comprehension and the stock response “help me understand how you got here” is just too much. Perception and laughter are foundational to having a heart for HR.

E - empathy
This isn’t new for HR professionals. Walk a mile in someone else’s shoes because you don’t know what is happening in their life. Having the sensibility to emotionally connect with others demonstrates a heart for HR.

A - awareness
A personal favorite is being a constant observer. Taking in the moment and being present for the situation that is directly in front of you and understanding the impact you have on those around you. Releasing the force-field around you presents a heart for HR.

R - recognition
Recognition of someone’s knowledge, skills and abilities is a basic need according to Maslow. The identification, supporting and engagement of their capability and capacity is life changing. This is where I want to live. Where desire and passion coexist and drive positivity and joy. Now rethink the concepts of “humility” and “awareness.” You are at the crossroads of HR. Encouraging success and recognition of talent pledges a heart for HR.

T - trust
Employees and the employer must have trust in you and your abilities. Failing that, it is time to move on. Trust in knowing that regardless of the outcome decisions were made without bias and in the best interests of all parties. You may not always get the answer you want, but it is generally the right answer for that time. Faith in people and processes is the constant that maintains a heart for HR.

Focus your efforts on lifting up and leaning in rather than tearing down and being divisive. Look inward and assess. Where is your heart for HR?