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When Should You Contact Human Resources?

Jun 16

Starting a new job, particularly if it's your first, is an exciting prospect. There's a lot to remember and a lot of people to meet, and one of the most important individuals you'll meet is your Human Resources manager, whose major duty is to protect your health and safety. Because you've become a valued asset to the business and a necessary cog in its machinery, HR is essential to ensuring that you and your colleagues are satisfied at work.

Despite this, there is often confusion about when it is appropriate to contact HR. You may doubt whether your query is severe enough, if your complaint is legitimate, or if there is anything they can do to help you. Here are five situations in which you should always call Human Resources to help you out.

 

Your employer, employees, or customers are causing you problems

If you think you have been singled out, harassed, or bullied at work, register a grievance against that individual - going to HR is a must. However, did you know that, according to recent changes to the Equality Act, you may disclose bias even if you aren't personally prejudiced? Even if you don't share the trait that is being discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint with your employer if you feel someone has been treated unjustly because of their sexuality, age, race, or disability.

'In the end, if it offends someone, it shouldn't be in the workplace,' says Kevin Orchard, a trained HR manager from Cornwall. 'If you don't feel comfortable addressing the person directly, you may ask HR to mediate or even bring the issue up via a third party.' It's possible you'll be able to keep your identity hidden.'

 

Personal circumstances change

If you need to take time off on short notice, cut your hours, work flexibly, or have issues concerning maternity or paternity leave, HR will be your first point of contact. They'll talk to your boss and try to fit everyone's schedules in.

 

Personal entitlements: When you start a new employment, speak to your HR manager about your company's benefits package. What is the company's plan for the mandated pension payments that will be required in the near future? Is it feasible for you to join in a program that allows you to ride your bike to work? Is it possible to get a free eye check if you use a computer? Is a bonus on the horizon for this year?

 

Look for opportunities

Human resources may help you progress in your present position. This might be accomplished via internal training or job shadowing. Given the present economic climate, it's extremely probable that they'll go forward with it if it benefits the company and gives you more freedom in your employment. You might also seek outside help. Inquire about potential part-funding options, or if the company would at the very least provide you with time off to complete the course (which is more likely if it is work-related).

 

It was just a way to get rid of some steam!

It's occasionally helpful to air your grievances with a third person who isn't involved in the situation. If you keep your feelings about your job, your colleagues, or the way your employers run their business bottled up, no one will benefit. Although you may assume your HR manager is uninterested, you are providing them with critical information about the company's culture and procedures. They'll likely value your thoughts and views just as much as you value getting them off your chest.