Human Resource professionals have heard for years that one of the keys to becoming more strategic in their role is to have strategic partnerships with other functions in their organization. Relationships don’t just happen however, they need to be cultivated, meaning we need to proactively seek out and develop relationships.
It’s not enough to say “I’m from human resources and want to be your strategic partner.” In developing relationships, one of the most important ingredients is credibility. Your credibility is what people will base their willingness to trust you and want to partner with you on business projects.
|
“Credibility is the foundation of leadership. If people don’t believe in the messenger, they won’t believe the message.” |
How do we build our credibility at work? Here a few thoughts to consider:
Knowledge – Every business professional must first be proficient in their own functional knowledge but then they need to know enough to be able to “speak the language” in the other key functional areas in their organization. Knowledge of the organization’s customers, comptition, and financial metrics will increase your credibility in business discussions.
Trust – Trust is something that is built over time. Your partners will learn to trust you when commitments are kept, your actions are ethical, information provided is accurate, and all needs and expectations are considered in decision making. Your motives will be clear to others by using open, frank communication.
Communication – Communication between strategic partners should be two-way and win-win. In two way communication each person has a chance to express an opinion, each looks at the situation from the other’s point of view, and finally a solution is developed together. Win-win communication occurs when each partner feels that they have been heard and their needs have been met.
By developing credibility in your business dealings, you will become a sought after business partner meaning that you will have an opportunity to have a voice in the future success of your organization.
Management Skills Resource, Inc. is pleased to offer interactive workshop, Work of Leaders which provides feedback on how your leaders perform within the key areas of Vision, Alignment, and Execution.. To discuss your training plans, contact us at info@ManagementSkillsInc.com or call 972 881-5282.