As always seems to be the case this time of year, bloggers from the HR and talent management world can't resist thinking about what is in store for our profession and boldly making their predictions for what we can expect to see in the coming year. In recent years, these predictions have run the gamut from "HR is dead," to "We'll finally get a seat at the table and the respect we deserve," and everything in between.
I too can't resist throwing out my predictions. Around this time last year I predicted that 2009 would be the year of adding value.
In many ways this prediction came to fruition in 2009 - thanks in large part to an ailing economy that forced leadership to strategically evaluate who (and what) actually adds value to their organization.
This recession has created a new competitive landscape where inefficiencies and poor performance cannot be tolerated. Quite frankly, if one does not add more value than they cost the organization, their employment cannot be justified for any sustained period of time.
Do I see this changing in 2010? Absolutely not. In fact I hope this is a lasting lesson that all organizations take away from the economic challenges we have faced over the past two years.
What do I see happening in 2010? My prediction is that HR will begin to fully understand and articulate the value it brings to their organization and become seen as real "players" by those in senior management.
At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, I don't think HR has any choice in the matter. While I am hopeful the economy will continue to show signs of recovery, things aren't going to return to normal for a long time. Simply put: if you can't financially justify your position or department within your organization, you/it won't be around for long.
Don't rely on the thought process of "But...who would do X (or Y or Z)". I promise you there are countless third party providers who specialize in doing X or Y or Z and can do it more cost effective than you would like to think.
They understand the value they provide, communicate it to others, and can justify their expense... that is why they are still in business.
How about you?
The New Year is here, HR. This is your chance to shine. Find the value you create in your organization and let others know about it. You may not have any other choice!
Now go Maximize Possibility!
Others' Predictions for HR, Talent Management, and Leadership in 2010:
