HR Frontiers with Senyo M Adjabeng: Why the HR consultant is your friend

In the modern corporate landscape, Human Resource (HR) consulting has emerged as a critical service, offering a range of solutions to businesses of all sizes. HR consultant, with their expertise and strategic insights, become more than just advisors; they become trusted allies and friends to organizations navigating the complexities of workforce management.

The HR Consultant has evolved into a trusted associate and accomplice, working at corporate people problems jointly and collaboratively with organisational leaders.  In my 20 years of HR Consulting, I have become close to some unique corporate executives who I can call brothers and ‘errrr’ sisters too.

This article explores the key attributes of HR consulting and elucidates why the HR consultant is indispensable to businesses as a partner and more.

HR Consulting is like having a seasoned guide to help a business navigate the complex terrain of managing its people within the organization.  Take for example your company needs to comply with new labor laws.  An HR consultant ensures all your contracts and policies are updated, so you don’t get into legal trouble.  Just like your personal lawyer, but cheaper and friendlier, making sure you don’t end up in “HR jail.”

Another example; Your company is merging with another. An HR consultant will help manage the transition, ensuring both teams integrate smoothly.  HR Consultants are like the party planner for your corporate wedding, ensuring both sides come together without any drama.

In essence, HR consulting is about providing expert advice and practical solutions to ensure your company’s human resources are managed effectively at your profit. They help hire the best people, stay compliant with laws, keep employees motivated, manage performance, handle changes, provide training, resolve conflicts, and create attractive compensation packages. An HR consultant is like the Swiss Army knife of the corporate world—versatile, handy, and indispensable.

What HR consulting brings to the table

HR consultants bring specialized knowledge and skills in various HR functions, from talent acquisition to compliance management. Their deep understanding of employment laws, regulations, and best practices ensures that organizations stay compliant and mitigate legal risks. For instance, the expertise of an HR consultant in navigating the intricacies of labor laws can save a company from costly litigations and fines.  One of the most valuable contributions of an HR consultant is the ability to align HR strategies with business goals. By conducting comprehensive workforce analyses, Consultants help organizations plan for future talent needs, identify skill gaps, and develop strategies for recruitment, retention, and succession planning. This strategic foresight ensures that businesses are well-equipped to meet their objectives.

Then in times of organizational change, whether it’s a merger, acquisition, or restructuring—HR consultants play a crucial role in managing the transition smoothly. They design and implement change management strategies that address employee concerns, maintain morale, and ensure productivity remains unaffected. According to Prosci, a leader in change management research, effective change management can increase the likelihood of project success by six times (Prosci, 2020).

Consultants assist organizations in developing robust performance management systems. By implementing fair and transparent evaluation processes, they help in setting clear performance expectations, providing regular feedback, and identifying areas for development. This leads to improved employee performance and overall organizational productivity.

Continuous learning and development are critical for sustaining a competitive workforce. HR consultants design and deliver training programs tailored to the specific needs of the organization. Whether it’s leadership development, technical skills training, or soft skills enhancement, these programs ensure that employees are equipped to meet the evolving demands of their roles.

Again, high levels of employee engagement are linked to increased productivity and lower turnover rates. HR Consultants implement engagement strategies, such as employee surveys, recognition programs, and career development opportunities, to foster a positive workplace culture. This concept is alluded to by Gallup, who state that organizations with high employee engagement experience 21% higher profitability (Gallup, 2017).

As external advisors, HR consultants provide an objective and unbiased perspective on HR issues. This impartiality is particularly valuable in conflict resolution, where an internal team might be influenced by organizational politics. By offering fair and balanced solutions, HR consultants help in resolving disputes and fostering a harmonious work environment.

Why the HR consultant is and should be a friend

Friendships develop over time and emanate from foundations of trust that only the parties involved can explain.  HR consultants as trusted advisors, build strong relationships with their clients, becoming trusted advisors who understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the organization. Their commitment to the company’s success fosters a sense of trust and reliability, akin to the qualities of a true friend.  Just as a friend offers personalized advice, HR consultants provide customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of the organization. They take the time to understand the company’s culture, goals, and pain-points, ensuring that their recommendations are relevant and effective.

Meanwhile, in the dynamic world of business, challenges are inevitable. HR consultants serve as supportive partners, offering guidance and reassurance during difficult times. Their presence provides a sense of stability and confidence, much like a friend who stands by you through thick and thin.  The primary focus of an HR consultant is to enhance the well-being of the organization and its employees. By implementing policies and practices that promote a positive work environment, they contribute to the overall happiness and satisfaction of the workforce. This, in turn, leads to a more engaged and productive team.

Unlike a typical business transaction, the relationship with an HR consultant often evolves into a long-term partnership. They invest time and effort into understanding the evolving needs of the organization, providing continuous support and guidance. This enduring relationship mirrors the loyalty and commitment found in genuine friendships.

One interesting fact I’d love to leave with you is that, of all the above insight I have eloquently  postulated about HR Consulting, and the key attributes of an HR Consultant, is that, if your current HR Consultant is not any of what is described above, then you are either not getting your money’s worth or you are entertaining a ‘419’ practitioner.  In essence, many hold themselves out as HR Consultants with little or no credentials to show for it.

Thankfully, there is now a way to check for credibility, authority and accreditation.  In my article, “Practical Applications of the new Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, Ghana Act 2020 (Act 1020), published by the Institute in their bulletin, “The HR News” (June/July 2023), I stated that “One of the practical applications of the new Law is the establishment of professional standards for the practice of human resource management in Ghana. The CIHRM-Ghana will be responsible for setting and enforcing these standards, which will ensure that practitioners have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage human resources in organizations. This I believe will result in better management of employees and improved productivity and performance in organizations.”

Thankfully, HR Consultants are held by the standards set by the provisions of the CIHRM, Ghana Act, 2020 (Act 1020), and are required to be a registered member of the Institute as well as registered and licensed as an HR Consultant (Individual) or HR Consulting Firm (Company or Partnership), before they can lawfully practice as such.  Great news I must say.

In conclusion, the role of the HR consultant extends beyond mere advisory services; they become an integral part of the organization’s journey towards success or the sustenance of that success. Their expertise, strategic insights, and supportive presence make them invaluable allies in the ever-changing corporate landscape.

As businesses continue to navigate complex HR challenges, the HR consultant remains a steadfast friend, dedicated to fostering growth, compliance, and employee well-being.  By acknowledging the multifaceted role of HR consultants, businesses can better appreciate their contributions and cultivate a collaborative relationship that drives organizational success.

For further reading:

• (2017). State of the American Workplace.
• (2020). The Prosci ADKAR Model: A Goal-Oriented Change Management Model to Guide Individual and Organizational Change.
• The HR News. (2023, pp40) “Practical Applications of the new Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, Ghana Act 2020 (Act 1020), published by the Institute in their bulletin, “The HR News” (June/July 2024)

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