Per Chance, Do You Have Room For Some Humility?

I just caught up this afternoon on all my favorite blogs. I admit I skipped some articles. So I when I say I "got caught up" that does not mean I read anything. I had many thoughts about all the entries. Choosing one: an entry from Seth Godin's blog from April 22nd entitled "You're Right". This got me thinking about HR and how we market ourselves within our respective companies.

Recently I ranted about possible reasons why HR is not allowed to the table. Essentially, I really believe that HR is insecure about its position because:

1. We are forced to prove our existence.
2. We don't believe we should have to.
3. We are unable to make ourselves appear remarkable.

HR departments should possibly hire an agent or a marketing consultant to boost their public image.

Instead they develop superiority complexes to mask their insecurities. And eventually do more damage than good. Think of someone you know who has a superiority complex (especially to mask their insecurity.) That person is a pain in the ass, aren't they? And you avoid them.

So if employees are frustrated with the HR department and it is having an effect on you getting to the table, think about:

1. Not taking their frustration personally.
2. Consider that they may be right.
3. Don't think it's pandering or weak to say, "I'm wrong."
4. Your pride getting in the way of a happy (internal) customer.