Rebuilding Trust in HR: How I Approach My Work Every Day

Jan 13, 2025

I recently had a conversation with a colleague that stuck with me. We talked about how, surprisingly, not all HR professionals are "people" people. For some, HR is just a job, not a passion. And while this can lead to frustration for businesses and employees, I believe the vast majority of HR professionals genuinely want to make a difference—they just might not always have the tools or support to do so.

When I begin working with new clients, I often hear stories of frustration and disappointment with past HR experiences. Some feel their needs weren’t met; others felt unheard or even dismissed. These experiences have left them hesitant to trust someone like me, even as I come in with the best of intentions.

So, how do I overcome this and help clients see what HR can truly be?

My Approach

Here’s what I focus on every single day:

  1. Building Trust
    Trust isn’t given; it’s earned. I make it a priority to do what I say I’m going to do and to show up when I’m needed. Consistency and reliability are at the heart of my relationships with clients and employees alike.

  2. Being Responsive
    I aim to be accessible and responsive. When I don’t know the answer to something, I’m honest about it. But I don’t leave it there—I make sure to find the answer or connect them with someone who can help.

  3. Leading with Kindness
    Everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt. I approach situations with empathy, assuming the best in people until proven otherwise. This mindset fosters open communication and mutual respect.

  4. Balancing Support
    One of the most delicate parts of my role is walking the fine line between supporting management and advocating for employees. Both sides need to feel heard and valued, and I work hard to ensure that balance is maintained.

Why This Matters

For me, HR isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. It’s about making a positive impact on people’s lives, creating environments where they can thrive, and helping businesses achieve their goals in a way that’s fair and sustainable.

I know that many HR professionals share this same commitment, working tirelessly behind the scenes to support their organizations. And I also know the incredible impact a great HR partner can have. That’s why I approach every client and situation with integrity, empathy, and accountability.

If you’ve had challenging experiences with HR in the past, I want to offer a different perspective. HR done well can be transformative for both businesses and employees—and I’m here to help make that happen.

If you're looking for an HR partner who prioritizes trust, responsiveness, and balance, I'd love to connect. Reach out today to learn more about how IrisHR can support your small business and help create a positive impact for your team.