Top HR Concepts and Terms
Human Resources is one of the most important functions of business, and as such, it has developed its own set of concepts and terms. Knowing the language of HR will help you work better with HR professionals, and can even help you get ahead in your own career. To get you started, here is a list of top HR concepts and terms.
What is Human Resources?
Human Resources (HR) involves many aspects of managing people within a business or organization. It’s responsible for hiring, training, developing, and managing all of the employees. It also oversees issues like employee policy and regulations, performance management, and even compensation and benefits.
The Operational Side of HR
Recruiting: This is the process of finding and hiring the right employees for an organization. It includes employment branding and advertising, applicant tracking, conducting interviews, and onboarding new hires.
Performance Management: This term refers to the methods used to ensure that employees are meeting their goals and objectives, as well as helping them develop their skills. It includes setting performance goals, evaluating performance, and providing feedback.
Compensation and Benefits: Compensation includes all forms of compensation, such as wages, salary, bonuses, and commissions. Benefits include anything that is offered to employees beyond their wages, such as healthcare insurance, vacation time, and retirement plans.
Employee Relations: This is the process of managing the relationship between an employer and an employee. It involves handling complaints, resolving disputes, and maintaining positive communication between the two parties.
The Strategic Side of HR
Organizational Design: This is the process of creating an organization’s structure, roles, and responsibilities. It focuses on the alignment of individual objectives with organizational objectives and strategies.
Learning and Development: This involves providing employees with the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to do their jobs. It includes training, coaching, and other forms of learning.
Talent Management: Talent management is the process of managing and retaining talent within an organization. It includes recruiting, compensation, and performance management.
Cultural Fit: This refers to the ability of an individual to fit in and work effectively with a company’s culture. It includes factors such as values, beliefs, and desired behaviors.
Common HR Terms and Acronyms
HRIS: Human Resources Information System. A computer software program used to track and manage employee information, such as payroll, benefits, and performance.
EEOC: Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. A federal agency responsible for enforcing laws that make it illegal to discriminate based on race, gender, age, religion, and other protected characteristics.
FMLA: Family and Medical Leave Act. A law that requires employers to provide employees with job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons.
PTO: Paid Time Off. Time off from work that is paid.
CRP: Certified Relocation Professional. A Certification held by individuals who have proven knowledge and experience in the field of employee relocation.
As you can see, there are many concepts and terms that are used in Human Resources. Understanding the language of HR can be a valuable asset to anyone working in the field or dealing with HR professionals. With an understanding of the basics of Human Resources, you’ll be able to better understand and appreciate the job that HR professionals do.
