Human resource managers interact with employees daily, helping them with complicated 401(k) benefit options, insurance questions and anything that deals with employee policies. These person-to-person interactions can have a direct positive impact on the lives of workers, and they are why being an HR manager is ideal for anyone who enjoys helping people succeed.
If you are considering such a career, then the online Master of Business Administration in HR Development at Pittsburg State University (PSU) may be right for you. The online degree expertly teaches the foundational theories and principles of employee development, education and performance.
Common Ways HR Professionals Help Workers
Benefits
New employees can expect any number of benefits:
- Health insurance
- Disability insurance
- Unemployment benefits
- Life insurance
- 401(k) retirement plans
- Maternity leave
- Paid vacations
HR managers field questions related to these benefits as part of the job. HR leaders must not only have a good grasp of company policy, they must understand the particulars of complex documents such as 401(k)s and medical insurance. This is one reason why MBA programs in HR development include financing, accounting and general business courses.
Career Planning
The work of HR managers does not end when a worker is hired. Beyond providing factual answers, HR leaders often give advice based on their experience and training. Many employees seek guidance to map out their careers. An entry-level accountant who one day wants to be CFO may be told that he needs to earn a CPA or MPA, for example. HR managers are often tasked with giving and storing performance records for all employees.
Education/Training
HR managers are responsible for orienting new employees and ensuring the continual training of workers. If a CEO chooses to implement a new policy for reporting sexual harassment, HR managers will be tasked with explaining the policy to ensure compliance. One HR specialty, employee education consultant, focuses exclusively on training staff.
Labor Disputes
During collective bargaining sessions, HR managers explain employee benefits to both sides of the dispute. Because HR managers daily interact with low-level employees, upper management often relies on HR leaders for advice on changes to compensation and benefits packages.
Whistleblowing
Some businesses have anonymous tip lines or specific representatives tasked with hearing complaints about unethical behavior. HR departments are responsible for ensuring that valid complaints are investigated.
Just Being a Resource
Beyond helping employees plan for retirement or file for disability, there are the rare but special moments when HR professionals give someone who is having financial difficulties a job or help secure health insurance for a family that has gone without coverage for months.
If you enjoy helping people, you already have one quality that drives HR leaders. The PSU online MBA in HR Development is designed to hone your natural skills so you can assist others while furthering your own career.
Learn more about Pittsburg State University’s online MBA in Human Resource Development program.