The top 5 attributes HR professionals need to influence business strategy

Here are the top 5 attributes I believe HR professionals need to influence business strategy…

 1. Visionary  

To be in a position to shape the future requires a good understanding of the current business context which a SWOT and PESTEL can inform. Scenario planning imagines the future of work. Systems thinking helps ensure the right business decisions are made.   

2. Storyteller

A compelling narrative starts with the business vision, mission and values. Strategic alignment is required between this and the business strategy, people strategy, goals and major processes.

3. Data-driven

Connect analytics to action. Get actionable insights from your data, but don’t fall into analysis paralysis. Develop protocols to review business KPIs at regular team meetings. Obtain insights from multiple sources, including annual reports (including those of competitors), investor perspectives and analyst views.

4. Networker

Be a good listener, collaborative, authentic, focus on how you can help others. Follow up. Schedule meetings with an agenda where you are offering support. Network internally and externally. Volunteer with a charity. Build your personal brand.

5. Coach

To influence business strategy, you don’t have to come up with all the answers. Be curious. Ask insightful questions. Pose hypotheses. Listen. Hold people accountable. Know your audience, and motivate them to be their best. Focus on building strengths.  

Many thanks to Jelena Petrovic at Kingston University Business School for inviting me to lead an interesting discussion on this topic with a group of highly talented post-graduate students.