In today's ever-evolving business landscape, small businesses face unique challenges, particularly in the realm of Human Resources (HR). To shed light on these issues and offer solutions, we recently had a conversation with Erin Hargrove, a representative from Lakeside HR Group. Here’s a comprehensive overview of our discussion, highlighting key insights that can help small business owners thrive.

Lakeside HR Group: A Brief Background

Lakeside HR Group was founded to address the specific HR needs of small and mid-sized businesses, recognizing that these organizations often lack the resources to recruit top talent or maintain an in-house HR department. With a commitment to providing personalized service, Lakeside HR Group offers a wide range of HR solutions designed to help businesses streamline operations, find the best candidates and enhance employee engagement.

The team at Lakeside HR Group comprises experienced recruiters and HR professionals who understand the nuances of various industries. Their approach is not one-size-fits-all; instead, they prioritize building strong relationships with clients to deliver tailored solutions that meet their unique challenges. By focusing on strategic HR management, Lakeside HR Group empowers businesses to improve productivity, comply with regulations, and create a positive work environment.

The Importance of Purpose in the Workplace

Erin emphasized the growing trend of younger generations seeking purpose in their careers. She stated, "When employees feel connected to a business's purpose, they are more likely to stay." Companies that articulate a strong mission, vision, and set of values not only attract talent but also enhance retention. Erin encourages small businesses to take the time to define their mission and vision clearly: "This is no longer just an enterprise-level objective but a necessity for all organizations."

The Evolving Role of HR in Small Businesses

As technology advances, the role of HR is evolving rapidly. Erin noted, "Tools like AI can enhance efficiencies, allowing HR professionals to focus more on strategic initiatives rather than administrative tasks." Small businesses are increasingly recognizing the need for dedicated HR expertise, especially as they scale.

Key HR Functions for Small Businesses

1. Recruitment and Retention: Finding and keeping the right talent is crucial. Erin highlighted that small businesses often lack the brand recognition of larger companies, making targeted recruitment strategies essential. "By creatively sourcing candidates, we can uncover hidden talent that might not be actively seeking new roles," she explained.

2. Employee Development: Investing in training and development not only enhances employee skills but also fosters loyalty. Erin pointed out, "Small businesses should focus on upskilling their teams to remain competitive in their industries."

3. Compliance and Risk Management: Small businesses are often unaware of the complex legal and regulatory landscape. Erin stated, "Having an HR partner helps mitigate risks associated with compliance, ensuring businesses are not exposed to potential legal issues."

4. Employee Relations: Maintaining a positive workplace culture is vital for morale and productivity. "HR professionals can help navigate conflicts, provide support during transitions, and ensure that employees feel valued," Erin noted.

The Human Element of HR

Erin candidly addressed the less glamorous aspects of HR, such as terminations. "It's not the fun side of HR," she admitted. Lakeside HR Group often assists businesses in navigating these difficult conversations with empathy and professionalism. Their approach emphasizes the human side of HR: "We ensure that affected employees are treated with dignity and respect during transitions." Properly managing these processes is essential not only for legal compliance but also for maintaining a positive workplace culture.

Overcoming Hesitance in HR Investment

For small business owners hesitant to invest in HR services, Erin offers practical advice: "View HR as an essential partner, similar to legal and tax advisors. Effective HR management is crucial for nurturing your most significant asset—your people." She emphasized, "Engaging with an HR partner can alleviate risks and provide valuable insights that contribute to long-term success."

Leveraging Local Support Networks

Erin highlighted the valuable role that local chambers of commerce play in supporting small businesses. "By actively participating and engaging with these networks, business owners can gain insights tailored to their unique challenges," she said. Sharing experiences with peers can lead to innovative solutions, especially during times of regulatory change.

Additional Resources

Local chambers and business networks often offer workshops, training sessions, and resources specifically designed to help small businesses navigate HR challenges. Taking advantage of these offerings can help owners stay informed about best practices, new regulations, and effective HR strategies.

Upcoming Initiatives at Lakeside HR Group

To further assist small businesses, Lakeside HR Group hosts webinars and events focusing on the ins and outs of small business HR. She encourages small business owners to participate: "These discussions can provide critical insights into managing HR effectively."

Conclusion

As small businesses navigate the complexities of HR, the insights from Erin Hargrove and Lakeside HR Group serve as a valuable resource. By emphasizing purpose, investing in HR, and leveraging community networks, small business owners can build resilient organizations ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Additionally, embracing key HR functions such as recruitment, compliance, and employee development will empower

small businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape. Visit Lakeside HR Group’s website, sign up for their monthly newsletter to get access to their events and webinars as well as learn about important topics in human resources and access jobs they are filling. Go to: https://lakesidehrgroup.com/

If you're interested in having an interview for a member blog, please email Grace Leapaldt at grace.leapaldt@epchamber.org for more details!