5 Truths About HR You Need to Know

TLDRHR is not your friend and is there to protect the company, not you. They lack knowledge of employment law and cannot provide confidential help. HR is subservient to company owners and managers. The quality of HR professionals varies dramatically.

Key insights

⚠️HR is there to protect the company, not you.

🔎HR lacks knowledge of employment law.

🤝HR is subservient to company owners and managers.

📉Complaining to HR can lead to retaliation and negative consequences.

The quality of HR professionals varies dramatically.

Q&A

Should I complain to HR if I have a problem at work?

You need to carefully consider the risks before complaining to HR, as they prioritize the company's interests. Only complain if the problem is significant and the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Can HR keep my complaint confidential?

HR is not obligated to maintain confidentiality, and in many cases, they may share your complaint with management or the person you're complaining about. Be cautious when discussing sensitive issues with HR.

Can HR provide legal advice?

HR professionals do not have the same knowledge and training as employment lawyers, so they may not be able to provide accurate legal advice. If you need legal guidance, consult with an employment lawyer.

What should I do if I believe HR is not helping me?

Consider seeking advice from an employment lawyer who can evaluate your situation and provide guidance on your legal rights. They can help ensure that your interests are protected.

Are all HR professionals bad?

No, there are excellent HR professionals who genuinely want to help employees. However, it is important to understand that their primary duty is to the company, and they may be limited in their ability to advocate for you.

Timestamped Summary

00:00HR is often seen as a resource for employees, but they prioritize the interests of the company over individual employees.

06:23HR cannot guarantee confidentiality, and your complaint may be shared with others, potentially leading to negative consequences.

10:35HR professionals ultimately answer to company owners and managers, and their priority is to protect the company's interests.

11:54Complaining to HR can result in retaliation and a focus on the person who complained rather than addressing the underlying issue.

13:46The quality of HR professionals varies, and not all have the necessary knowledge or skills to effectively handle employee issues.