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“Manti Armstrong, SPHR”

All in the name of performance.

The abuse of power, authority, influence, decision-making, manipulation and the law. Who goes to such extremes to chase an unattainable goal of being a top performer in their field? What kind of professional can end careers and tweak the interpretation of the law so things work out just the way they want them to? Who has this crazy ability in our organizations?

Oh…that’s right…human resources does.

Power

One of the realities of my role is that I’ve never quite come to grips with the authority I have as a human resources leader. Employees call me “sir” (which I usually respond with “please call me Jay.”)
Others who I don’t recognize thank me for changes to our benefit plans that have helped their families.
Sometimes people just turn and watch as I walk past as if I was the good behavior police wandering through their department.

Fortunately the negative examples are the exceptions not the rule. I’ve worked hard to be as personable and real as I can be so our team members will feel comfortable asking me questions, challenging me on issues, or sometimes just talking hockey.

I work hard, just like you do…ultimately we do it all in the name of performance.

Getting Caught Up In Yourself

Let’s face it, human resources roles are relatively high profile in many organizations. Sometimes that is a good thing (hopefully!); but candidly sometimes we are stuck with the “hatchet” moniker that can be difficult to distance ourselves from.
We are forced to strike a balance between having a lot of authority and influence, while simultaneously ensuring we do not abuse that power.
Balance can be tough, particularly if we justify our behavior all in the name of performance.

How About You

Typically the HR leadership team doesn’t head down the path of performance enhancing drugs, fake girlfriends, malicious lawsuits, chasing fame, notoriety, money and the Heisman Trophy all while hurting friends, colleagues, teammates and the public at large along the way.

But hey…if it’s done all in the name of performance…

I’d love to hear from you.

No Excuses.

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