Top 5 HR Questions Frequently Asked By Business Owners

Written By: Belinda Quach

Managing human resources can pose a challenge for business owners. This month, we address the top five frequently asked HR questions we receive.

1. How can I manage performance discussions effectively?

Performance conversations are a crucial component of employee development and organizational success but can be challenging to navigate. Many business owners and their managers struggle with balancing constructive criticism with positive feedback. Common errors include holding back constructive feedback, sandwiching compliments to soften the message, not being specific about performance issues, or being too direct using words that aren't objective. To address these challenges, it is essential to provide clear, actionable feedback while maintaining a supportive tone. Be transparent and empathetic. And remember...it's a two-way conversation.

Consider our Difficult Conversations training program to equip you and your managers with the skills needed to navigate challenging discussions effectively. The training includes preparing for difficult conversations, creating a mind map for feedback and intention, responding tactfully with carefully chosen words, concluding the conversation constructively, summarizing the discussion in an email to the employee, and ensuring proper documentation is in place. This training will help improve communication and problem-solving within your team.

2. How can I improve employee engagement within my company?

Employee engagement is a key component of productivity and retention. One effective strategy is to conduct regular engagement surveys to gauge employee satisfaction and identify areas that need attention. Additionally, fostering a positive work environment through team-building activities and recognition programs can significantly boost morale.

Considering the importance of employee engagement in productivity and retention, it can be beneficial to conduct an annual engagement survey with a third party such as HR Transformed. This survey can offer employees the choice to provide feedback anonymously or reveal their identity. By gathering this valuable information, organizations can gain insights into employee satisfaction and areas needing improvement. Moreover, creating a positive work environment through team-building initiatives and recognition programs can greatly enhance morale among employees.

3. What is the best way to transition staff to management roles?

Promoting staff to management roles based on tenure alone can lead to poor leadership and organizational challenges. Effective management requires targeted training and development. Providing new managers with leadership training and coaching can equip them with the necessary skills to succeed.

For executives, one-on-one coaching sessions are highly beneficial in honing leadership skills to effectively manage diverse staff teams and personality types. For those transitioning into managerial roles, courses such as Making the Transition from Staff to Supervisor offer an excellent foundation for cultivating their mentorship abilities and fostering the growth of their subordinates.

4. How can I promote work-life integration for my employees when I need client work to get done?

Work-life integration is crucial for employee well-being and productivity. Encourage the use of PTO, offer mental health days, and provide access to mental health resources. Make sure the staff knows how to stagger their time off so clients feel well supported while you promote a good work-life integration.

Some tactics around work-life integration can be free or can cost you money. Work with your budget and do something that helps employees feel like you are also aware of what they need in order to succeed at life and work.

5. How can I effectively handle timesheet submissions?

Timely submission of timesheets is critical for maintaining an efficient and compliant payroll cycle. Delays in timesheet submissions can disrupt financial planning, payroll schedules, and lead to inaccurate timekeeping records. To mitigate this, establish clear policies and reminders for timesheet submission dates.

Having a third party explain the importance of timely timesheet submission to your employees can sometimes have a greater impact. It is crucial for maintaining an efficient and compliant payroll cycle. Delays in submitting timesheets can disrupt financial planning, affect payroll schedules, and result in inaccurate timekeeping records. To address this issue, it is recommended to establish clear policies and send reminders about timesheet submission deadlines.

How We Can Help

At HR Transformed, we offer a range of HR solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you're a startup, a growing business, or an established company, our HR packages, training and coaching provide the tools and support you need to navigate the complexities of HR management. For more information about our services and packages, please click here.

Outsourcing HR means you can focus on growing your business while we care for your HR needs, ensuring a seamless and efficient HR function.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your HR practices and contribute to your organization's long-term success.