Atlanta, GA. (May 2, 2008) Chart Your Course International conducted an online survey about how people perceive their Human Resources departments. The survey asked individuals to answer the question, “Do you trust your HR department?” They were also asked to evaluate if the HR department cares more about employees or management.
The data collected for the survey was completed in December 2007. The survey was conducted online with 623 respondents located internationally. Answers were compared between those that said they worked within Human Resources (HR) and those who said they did not (Non-HR). Additionally, results were sub divided by executives, managers, and hourly personnel.
Though this was not a scientific survey, it shows a major difference of opinion exists between what HR thinks they are doing, and how the workforce perceives it. The most striking finding is only 48.9% of executives (Non-HR) trust their own HR department. This is echoed by managers (Non-HR) who reported only 48.6% trust their HR department.
The survey allowed each respondent to provide suggestions on how to improve the human resources function. Many of the suggestions and comments reveal the skepticism people have.
Greg Smith, President of Chart Your Course International, initiated the survey based on the increasing number of complaints coming from employees and clients. The survey clearly shows employees feel they have the least support from HR. Sixty-eight percent of hourly workers do not trust the Human Resources Department. Greg says, “If employees feel they are not getting support then that places them at greater risk for low job satisfaction and higher employee turnover.”
Smith said, “There are some outstanding human resource departments and human resource officers out there. However, in general, this survey shows a major need to strengthen the HR function in many businesses.”
Chart Your Course International provides talent management solutions to businesses world wide. Greg Smith is the President and founder of Chart Your Course International located in Atlanta, Georgia. Greg served on the Board of Examiners for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. He has authored eight books including 401 Proven Ways to Retain Your Best Employees.
The complete survey including graphs and charts can be found at: http://www.chartcourse.com/hrtrustsurvey.html