In the evolving future of work, HR’s role in shaping organizational culture and driving strategic success has become more critical than ever. McLean & Company, a global HR research and advisory firm, highlights the importance of developing a robust HR strategy that aligns with organizational goals and adapts to changing business needs. Their newly updated blueprint, Create an HR Strategy, offers a research-backed approach to help HR leaders build effective strategies that guide organizations into the future.
- The Value of HR as a Strategic Partner
- McLean & Company’s research shows that organizations are significantly more effective at adapting to new opportunities and implementing innovative ideas when HR is integrated into the organization’s strategic planning. HR, when positioned as a strategic partner, can drive the competitive advantage that propels an organization toward its goals.
- The 2024 HR Trends Report Insights
- According to McLean & Company’s HR Trends Report 2024, organizations that incorporate HR as a strategic partner are 1.8 times more likely to scale effectively to seize new opportunities. Moreover, they are 2.7 times more likely to excel in generating and implementing new ideas. This demonstrates the power of HR’s strategic influence on an organization’s success.
- McLean & Company’s Four-Step Process to Create an HR Strategy
- McLean & Company’s blueprint offers a clear four-step process to guide HR leaders in creating an aligned and future-focused HR strategy.
- Step 1: Assess the Current State
- HR leaders begin by understanding the organization’s strategy, conducting internal assessments, and analyzing workforce data. This step ensures that HR is aligned with organizational objectives and uncovers the current state of HR.
- Step 2: Establish Strategic Pillars and HR Outcomes
- HR identifies areas of focus and strategic pillars that align with organizational goals. By defining clear outcomes that support these pillars, HR ensures that its initiatives are relevant and impactful.
- Step 3: Identify HR Initiatives
- HR evaluates existing initiatives for alignment with strategic pillars and identifies gaps. This step helps HR plan new initiatives to close these gaps, ensuring that HR is equipped to deliver on its strategic objectives.
- Step 4: Create an Action Plan
- In the final step, HR leaders prioritize initiatives based on their impact and effort. Metrics are defined to track progress, and HR’s priorities and required resources are communicated. This action plan sets the stage for the successful implementation of the HR strategy.
- The Evolving Nature of HR Strategy
- McLean & Company stresses that an effective HR strategy should evolve with the organization. HR leaders should think beyond the current state of HR capacity and resources and focus on where the organization is headed. This future-focused mindset enables HR to contribute strategically, even in times of uncertainty and change.
The role of HR in driving organizational success is more vital than ever. By following McLean & Company’s proven four-step process to create an aligned HR strategy, HR leaders can ensure that they are not just managing today’s workforce but also guiding their organization toward future growth and success. By positioning HR as a strategic partner, organizations can unlock the full potential of their people and drive impactful, long-term results.
