Three Work Challenges HR Cannot Resolve for You, Explained by an HR Expert

I have served as the Chief People Officer at Toms Shoes for four years, overseeing critical HR functions such as hiring, onboarding, and planning for talent succession.

In 2023, I launched 'Hack Your HR,' a platform where I provide rapid insights and strategies within the human resources domain through Instagram videos. My goal is to equip individuals with the tools they need to excel in their corporate roles and understand what happens behind the HR scenes.

I assist employees in learning how to be their own advocates at work, including what terms to use when speaking to supervisors and how to request support if they're lacking it.

HR Decisions: More Advice Than Authority

Although HR offers substantial support, it doesn't hold the answers to every hurdle you might face as a part of the workforce. Here are three scenarios where approaching HR might not be the most productive use of your time.

The way each HR department functions can differ widely, but generally, HR tends to suggest rather than decide. For instance, if an employee is denied a promotion by their manager, they might wrongly assume HR has the last word on the matter.

It's a flawed assumption to think of HR as an arbiter, comparable to consulting a different parent after the first says no. Similarly, there's a misconception that HR finalizes salaries. In truth, HR communicates budgetary guidelines but typically does not set the actual figures, which are often determined by higher-level management, such as executives or financial teams.

HR's Role in Career Advancement

Employees often strive for advancement or increased earnings, but HR must balance these aspirations with departmental needs, which may sometimes conflict with personal growth ambitions.

To best position yourself for a raise or promotion, start by clearly understanding your own goals. If you've tried to showcase your skills yet find you're not being recognized, engage your manager—especially during key performance evaluation periods.

It's crucial for HR to be open about possible advancements. Factors like company profits, hiring freezes, or feedback indicating more development is needed could mean it's not the ideal time to request a raise or new role.

Self-Advocacy: A Key Piece of the Promotion Puzzle

There is a common belief that promotions and new roles will be handed to individuals by their supervisors or HR, but the truth is, advocacy starts with you. To succeed, you need to be assertive and draft plans for your own career growth.

Those who take charge of their careers by setting clear objectives, crafting a roadmap, and actively voicing their intentions to progress in the company will typically be more successful than their passive peers.

When beginning a new job, it's beneficial to have an informational discussion with HR about various company resources, performance assessments, and growth opportunities, including mentorship programs that might not be widely known.

While HR is not omnipotent, they can assist to a significant extent if you actively participate in steering your career forward.