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Foster Collaboration and Build Culture: A Decade of Cross-Functional Initiatives

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In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to collaborate across various functions and departments is crucial for the success of any organization. Over my decade-long journey in Human Resource Management, working in both manufacturing and IT sectors, I've had the opportunity to witness and participate in numerous initiatives that promote cross-functional collaboration. These initiatives not only enhance business performance but also play a key role in fostering a positive work culture and building a sense of camaraderie among employees. Let's take a deeper look at some of the initiatives that have made a significant impact. 1.Quality Circles Quality Circles are small groups of employees from various departments who come together to address issues related to quality, productivity, and other operational concerns. These groups are typically voluntary and focus on problem-solving through collective brainstorming and solution implementation. By encouraging employees...

Rethinking Careers and Workplace Culture in a Rapidly Evolving World

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 We live in an era of relentless technological advancement, where businesses are driven by innovation, automation, and digital transformation. With this rapid evolution, workplaces are undergoing a fundamental shift- not just in the way we work but also in how we perceive career growth and workplace culture. Employees today seek more than just financial security; they aspire to work in environments that support their well-being, encourage continuous learning, and offer a sense of purpose. A thought-provoking question once made me reconsider my career trajectory: Would you like to retire as an HR professional? This question was an eye-opener. Why would anyone remain in the same career for over three decades if there are opportunities to expand, diversify, and evolve? The modern workplace no longer confines individuals to a single linear career path. If one has the acumen, adaptability, and willingness to take on new challenges, they can build expertise across multiple domains, addi...

Transforming Employee Engagement: A Shift from Touchpoints to Touchhearts

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In the dynamic landscape of modern business, organizations face a pressing need to move beyond conventional employee engagement practices. Macro-economic shifts and evolving employee preferences, notably among Gen Z, underscore the necessity for a profound transformation in how companies view and interact with their workforce. Jobs are no longer seen merely as a means to meet basic needs or financial obligations. Contemporary employees, particularly the emerging Gen Z workforce, seek meaningful experiences at work. The desire for attention, respect, and a sense of euphoria comparable to high-end retail experiences is increasingly becoming a driving force in employee expectations. The paradigm shift extends to how employees wish to be perceived - not just as workers but as "Customers." This implies a departure from traditional employer-employee relationships towards a model where HR frameworks are agile, adapting seamlessly to the diverse and fluid needs of modern talent. Havi...

Navigating the Dynamic Realms of HR: A Decade's Reflection

As an HR professional with a decade-long journey spanning both the manufacturing and information technology (IT) sectors, I've witnessed the nuanced dance between human resources and two vastly distinct industries. Each realm comes with its own set of challenges, triumphs, and unique characteristics that shape the HR landscape in profound ways. Embracing Tradition in Manufacturing HR In the world of manufacturing, the heartbeat of HR echoes with the rhythms of tradition. The emphasis on established processes, hierarchies, and a hands-on approach to employee management is palpable. It's a domain where personal connections matter, and the shop floor is as much a social hub as it is a place of production. In manufacturing, the HR role often involves dealing with a diverse workforce, from skilled craftsmen to assembly line workers. Personally, I had the privilege of handling 5 diverse workforce at work, the act Apprentices, Contract labours, Casual employees, Unionised permanent wo...

Unlocking Infinite Possibilities: My Tryst with "Shambavi Mahamudra"

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In the serene corridors of time, my journey with Shambavi Mahamudra Yoga commenced almost four years ago, a transformative expedition that has unfurled countless benefits in my life. From March 2022 to the present day, this practice has become an integral part of my daily routine, shaping not only my physical well-being but also fostering mental clarity, optimism, and an unwavering concentration. A Glimpse into the Past: 2009 - The Genesis of Exploration My first encounter with Shambavi Mahamudra Yoga dates back to 2009 when I accompanied my sister, Dr. Gayathri, to the ISHA Yoga center in Washermanpet. As I approached the hall, the sight of neatly arranged slippers outside caught my attention. Little did I know that this seemingly simple detail would mark the beginning of a profound journey into the world of ISHA Yoga. Challenges and Rediscovery: The Journey to Consistency Life, with its twists and turns, presented challenges that disrupted the consistency of my yoga practices...

Mental Wellness

Mental Health is invisible, hard to diagnose; self-awareness is the key but it is a complex process/term. It isn't easy to clearly define mental disorders or diseases that exist. Every person has the right to feel mentally healthy, supported, and helped. Often, we come across people who end their lives due to mental illnesses that are both acute and chronic in nature. The fact remains that, due to advancements in mental health management and treatment of disorders and diseases, both medication and access to counseling services are available to everyone. There are several psychiatrists, from Dr. Thirunavukkarasu to Dr. Sivabalan and Dr. Anbudurai, who are doing their part to build awareness, and they have embarked on a journey to touch lives meaningfully. All said, how to identify and rightly point out that you and I have a problem. Observe your daily routines, monitor your daily interactions, track your performance, and observe your social behavior. Any alterations or disturbance...

Strategic Hiring Lag Indicators

Enhancing hiring in a software company involves a strategic approach.  Here are some steps and sources that I have compiled both from my experience and my team's.  Define Clear Job Descriptions : Start by creating detailed job descriptions that outline the skills and qualifications you're looking for in candidates. * Leverage Online Job Platforms *: Use popular job posting websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized tech job boards to reach a wide audience. * Utilize Social Media *: Share job openings on your company's social media channels, especially on LinkedIn and Twitter. Engage with potential candidates in relevant online communities and groups. * Employee Referrals *: Encourage your current employees to refer candidates. Employee referrals often lead to higher-quality hires. * Company Website *: Maintain a careers section on your company's website, showcasing your culture and available positions. * Recruitment Agencies *: Partner with tec...