What are the five main tasks of a human resource manager

An HRM (Human Resource Manager) is responsible for building a robust work environment. HRM handles all necessary tasks, including talent management, employee compensation, and hiring. 

Even though it seems like a lot of work, an HRM has five main tasks to do for a business. The main task of a human resource manager is to operate the most important thing a company needs. And that is people (employees) 

Human resource managers wear many hats to make our workplace great. The five main tasks of a human resource manager are finding and nurturing talent. Then, ensure fair pay and benefits, provide growth opportunities, keep things compliant, and ensure everyone stays safe. 

Read More: Human Resource Management Vs. Personnel Management

The Five Main Tasks of a Human Resource Manager

There are five duties and responsibilities of HR managers for every company. The most important role of HR is to manage employees. Here are the main tasks of a human resource manager:

1. Talent Management

Human resources managers ensure organizations have the proper personnel. Their talent management sector combines other sub-sectors, such as recruiting, hiring, developing, and retaining employees.

HR managers do more than manage talent; they’re the ones who bring in new members. They start by crafting job postings, having friendly chats with potential candidates, and getting to know them through interviews.

Proactively, HR managers prepare for potential staffing needs, developing strategies that may include a mix of full-time, part-time, or temporary hires. A human resource manager will monitor trends that may impact staffing needs and make appropriate preparations if they are not hiring.

In the unionized workplace, the talent management team takes care of things like talking with employees. Moreover, they negotiate agreements, respond to union discussions, and ensure everyone understands the agreements’ terms.

2. Compensation and Benefits

HR managers ensure everyone gets paid accurately and on time. They meticulously navigate the complexities of payroll administration. Meanwhile,  HR specialists focus on creating a fair compensation structure and keeping tabs on how other companies handle pay.

Eventually, this includes establishing methods for tracking owed compensation, implementing systems for payroll processing, and conducting industry research to benchmark compensation levels.  

Sometimes, individual HR professionals handle their work for smaller companies. However, these responsibilities are typically divided among specialized teams as companies expand. 

Moreover, HR practitioners take charge of negotiating group health coverage rates with insurance carriers and coordinating intricacies with the company’s 401(k) administrator . The payroll system meticulously updates adjustments, such as raises, to reflect current remuneration.

3. Training and Development

Success in progressive businesses depends on ongoing staff development. HR managers strategically plan and implement training sessions, educational programs, and professional development initiatives to enhance workforce skills. 

HR managers are responsible for providing the necessary tools to employees for their success. The tools, such as laptops, job-related software, or leadership training programs, can be physical and mental.

By providing essential materials like employee handbooks, they facilitate the smooth integration of new hires and monitor performance to identify individuals deserving of additional support or advancement.

4. HR Compliance

HR directors oversee negotiations between labor unions and business interests and ensure workers are treated fairly. They handle complex negotiations between labor unions and management. 

Therefore, HR managers establish a balanced discussion that addresses the needs and concerns of both parties.

As a liaison between the workforce and management, HR managers address employee concerns regarding adherence to standards or legal requirements, ensuring a fair and compliant working environment.

5. Workplace Safety

HR managers act as communicators of organizational standards, ensuring employee awareness and compliance with regulations. They proactively create safe work environments and manage situations that may compromise workplace integrity. 

Under the guidance of OSHA, HR managers play a vital role in maintaining workplace safety. They ensure safety and health standards by actively identifying and addressing potential hazards.

Additionally, HR managers train employees on safety protocols and meticulously document workplace injuries and illnesses.

In the unfortunate event of workplace injuries, HR managers collaborate with insurance providers. They oversee the claims process and support affected individuals with the necessary documentation.

What are The Other Roles of an HR Manager?

Apart from the five main duties and responsibilities of HR managers, they are responsible for employee satisfaction and retention.

Recognition and Rewards: HR managers set up recognition programs, celebrate achievements, and make sure every employee knows their efforts are genuinely appreciated. 

Conflict Resolution: Addressing workplace conflicts promptly and somewhat is part of HR’s responsibility. HR managers contribute to a positive work environment by providing a neutral platform for conflict resolution.

Exit Interviews and Retention Analysis: Understanding why employees leave through exit interviews helps HR managers identify areas for improvement. They use this feedback to implement strategies that enhance retention and address any concerns.

Career Path Planning: HR managers work with employees to create career development plans. This involves identifying growth opportunities within the organization, providing mentorship, and supporting career progression.

Company Culture and Values: HR managers actively promote and uphold our organizational values, fostering an environment where employees genuinely feel a sense of belonging. They create a workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and part of a cohesive team.

Final Thoughts

An HR manager is a big part of building a successful company. Apart from the main five tasks of a human resource manager, they implement employee recognition programs. As a result, an employee can understand their value and work hard for the company.

Not to mention, HR managers should regularly talk to their team, offer feedback, and foster a positive work atmosphere.