Overseeing the human resource functions in an organization can be challenging for all of us at times (yes, truer words have never been spoken!). The good news is that there are so many available resources that offer assistance, whether our questions concerning recruitment, new policy implementation, conflict resolution, employee relations, or any other areas considered to be under the “umbrella” of human resources.
Here are a few books to consider:
Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life, One Conversation at a Time – It’s not always easy (to say the least) to talk with employees about poor performance or workplace conflict issues. This book is a wonderful resource for teaching us how to communicate more effectively and powerfully when we need to have those difficult conversations. Author Susan Scott is an expert in her field and she wants us to succeed in our everyday personal and professional life. Her Seven Principles of Fierce Conversations lay the groundwork:
- Master the courage to interrogate reality
- Come out from behind yourself into the conversation and make it real
- Be here, prepared to be nowhere else
- Tackle your toughest challenge today
- Obey your instincts
- Take responsibility for your emotional wake
- Let silence do the heavy lifting
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable – You may want to consider reading this book with other leadership teams in your organization. Patrick Lencioni walks the reader through a story of a CEO who is trying to unite a team that’s threatening to cripple the entire company. While telling the tale, Lencioni discusses five dysfunctions. They include:
- Absence of Trust
- Fear of Conflict
- Lack of Commitment
- Avoidance of Commitment
- Inattention to Results
The good news is that this book also suggests actionable steps that can make teams successful.
The 7 Intuitive Laws of Employee Loyalty: Fascinating Truths About What It Takes to Create Truly Loyal and Engaged Employees – Heather R. Younger offers readers tips and tricks for boosting employee engagement. She points out that creating a positive workplace culture focused on job satisfaction and involved, loyal employees is directly linked to an organization’s bottom line.
The “intuitive laws” referenced in the book’s title include:
- The Manager
- Appreciation
- Listen
- Growing and Promoting Employee Talents
- Deep Connections
- Teamwork
- Pay
Leaders can easily implement the strategies laid out in this book to create a dynamic workplace environment – a win/win situation for all!