Leading Edge HR Executives

I keep returning to the leadership theory as to me it is very interesting and dynamic. Quick thoughts on what separates human resource executives and other players:

Accountability: Hard, critical decisions made, especially in turbulent times regarding layoffs, restructuring, or whatever the current word of the moment might be. There are many of us who entered into the field of human resources through another channel, and have to shake the stigma of just being the HR police. In some organizations, there is a common misconception that HR is responsible for hiring and firing - we are the facilitator of these actions. However, HR is heavily involved in difficult decision making if the leadership decides the only way to go is to reduce headcount. Accountability means there is a favorable relationship with leadership which is critical in gathering support.

Analytical: It is imperative to remove emotions and leverage data to proactively measure the business.

Acumen: Understanding the business is equally if not more important than understanding the human capital.