Many smaller businesses go without an HR presence hoping to save money, but business owners need to truly understand what financial and operating benefits skilled HR brings to the table that can keep them from situations that will cost them much more than they are saving. What they soon realize is that Human Resources keeps their business compliant with rapidly changing employment laws, state and local regulations, and governance related policies. If your organization has 50 or more employees there are filings and reporting, such as Affirmative Action Plans, EEO, Form 5500’s, and ACA reporting that human resources is tasked with handling.  Another area that HR takes care of is training, this is essential now as training around sexual harassment, diversity training, and hostile work environment training – are required by state and local governments.

Employees should be treated equally and fairly. Keeping your employees satisfied, will keep employee turnover lower and help keep HR costs lower. An HR professional can help navigate the benefit options to offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Small businesses can offer a 401(k) plan or flexible working hours to balance the ability to compensate for a lower salary. Failure to correct issues will put your company at greater risk for lawsuits.

Outsourcing or hiring an HR professional internally will save time that is spent on HR tasks when that time could be spent on needs for your business.  If your business size or budget prevents you from hiring an in house HR, consider HR outsourcing (HRO) or Professional Employer Organization (PEO).

What are some of the common time saving HR tasks that an HR professional will provide?

• Payroll Processing
• Employee Benefits
• Employment Laws
• Employee Relations
• Employee Hiring
• Employee Performance
• Background Checks
• Counseling

The pandemic is changing the way businesses manage HR. An HR professional will be on top of the modified employee benefits and programs for health, as well as work arrangements in the COVID-19 future. Employers will need to accommodate COVID-19 sick leave and time to quarantine, as well as any new COVID related issues that may change their workplace needs.