Keeping a Distance

HR professionals often deal with employees in difficult situations (e.g. discipline, terminations, etc.). In these circumstances, employees may open up to HR professionals and share personal details of their lives to explain their behavior at work. Employees may think it's acceptable to do so.

I suggest that HR professionals do not reciprocate by sharing their personal experiences in such situations. It's better to remain at a professional distance and limit the discussion of personal matters. In the end, HR professionals are there to deal with workplace issues that may result in an employee's termination - they are not there to be a confidant. Maintaining a professional distance keeps emotions in check and reminds HR professionals of their responsibilities.

April Shand, MBA, CHRP
Manager, People Services
SMART Technologies Inc

I have been practicing as an HR Professional in a variety of different roles for the last 14years for the government, post secondary education, and private sector. My educational background includes payroll designations through the Canadian Payroll Association, a Bachelor of Administration, my CHRP designation, and most recently an MBA.

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